Stage 2 lipedema - how to recognize it and take action
The clinical picture of lipoedema has received more and more attention in recent years. Lipedema is a pathological and above all chronic fat distribution disorder. It is divided into different stages: Lipedema stage 1, Lipedema stage 2 and Lipedema stage 3.
We at LipoClinic Dr. Heck are committed to worldwide recognition and research into lipoedema in order to give even more women a new attitude to life.
Many of those affected by stage 2 lipedema go through a whole series of stages on their way to a diagnosis. The condition is often misdiagnosed as obesity. As a result, those affected not only suffer from the effects of their disease, which include swelling, pain, hematomas and increasingly restricted mobility. They also often suffer from stigmatization and a range of prejudices. These range from accusations of a poor diet and too little exercise to laziness.
Our aim is to provide important educational work and to give those affected a point of contact that treats them with respect and without prejudice. We must therefore address the different stages of the disease. So what exactly is stage 2 lipedema and how can you recognize it?
How does lipedema stage 2 manifest itself - A thorough introduction?
Before we talk about what stage 2 lipedema or grade 2 lipedema is, it is important to take a closer look at the clinical picture of lipedema.
Generally speaking, lipedema is a chronic, progressive and painful fat distribution disorder. Better: this is a disproportionate increase in fatty tissue in the extremities (arms and legs) compared to the trunk of the body. A mixed picture is frequently found and often makes it difficult to differentiate from obesity.
In addition to the body mass index (BMI), other parameters such as the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WTR) can be used to better assess and, in particular, monitor the progression of stage 2 lipoedema. As the disease progresses, mobility may be restricted. Additional excess weight can worsen the symptoms of lipoedema. The staging is not necessarily linked to the extent of the clinical symptoms (pain). A patient with stage 2 lipedema may describe more pain than a patient with stage 3.
Where the disease comes from or what triggers it has not yet been sufficiently researched. At the current state of research, scientists assume a hereditary predisposition (60% genetic component with familial clustering) in combination with a hormonal change. The hormone oestrogen is thought to play a decisive role. This would at least explain why the clinical picture mainly occurs in women.
Symptoms and signs of stage 2 lipedema
Lipoedema is diagnosed in different stages or degrees. In stage 1 lipedema, the thickening of the fatty tissue is still slight. The formation of lumps or dents is not very noticeable. Those affected suffer from pain and a feeling of heaviness. Early detection of the disease and initiation of the appropriate therapeutic measures can alleviate the course of the disease.
Grade 2 lipedema is characterized by a disproportionate distribution of fat deposits. The upper body is slimmer than the extremities, which makes many women feel insecure. In addition to the pain, they usually also struggle with feelings of shame and unhappiness, which in the worst cases can also affect their mental health.
In addition, stage 2 lipedema also leads to an increase in the formation of dents and lumps. In most cases, the legs are in the foreground. It is rare that only the arms are affected. The contours of the legs can also increasingly disappear and a kind of columnar stature of the legs becomes increasingly apparent.
If you suspect stage 2 lipedema, you should definitely consult a specialist who is experienced in the field of lipedema. Self-treatment in the form of radical diets and sports excesses is strongly discouraged, as it has been proven that the disease cannot be triggered and alleviated by any of these factors. However, a balanced diet can help to alleviate the symptoms of stage 2 lipoedema. This is another reason why it is important to consult an appropriate specialist. To prevent the disease from progressing to stage 3 lipedema, you should consult a specialist if you suspect stage 2 lipedema.
Treatment approaches and options for stage 2 lipedema
- A healthy and balanced diet in combination with sufficient exercise. Sports activities that are good for you and your body can be done at any time. Many patients report particularly good experiences with sporting activities in the water, such as swimming or water gymnastics, as these are particularly easy on the joints.
- Wearing compression garments helps to decongest the tissue and keep it soft, as the compression garments act like a kind of massage on the legs or arms during movement. However, it is imperative that the correct measurements are taken in a medical supply store to ensure that the compression garment is tailored to your individual needs. Compression garments that are measured or cut too tightly will cut into the extremities and have a negative effect on blood circulation as a result. During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to ask our doctors who specialize in the treatment of stage 2 lipoedema for advice. At our Mülheim an der Ruhr location, we also offer you the opportunity to get a second opinion on your existing compression garment. Our cooperation partners at the Sanitätshaus für Frauen will do this and can also carry out an initial measurement.
- Manual lymphatic drainage helps to loosen the congested tissue and is an important part of the treatment, especially after liposuction.
Living with stage 2 lipedema: strategies for everyday life
It takes time for a diagnosis to be made or for the scars from an operation to heal completely. As lipedema stage 2 is a chronic disease, it is important that you know how to deal with the disease, but also with yourself.
It is important to focus on a healthy, balanced diet and incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine as this can help to control weight and promote lymphatic circulation. Wearing compression garments for stage 2 lipedema can help to reduce swelling and relieve pain. It is also important to have regular medical check-ups to monitor the progression of the disease.
But probably the most important thing is that you don’t lose heart. Stage 2 lipedema cannot be cured, but it can be treated and we, the team at LipoClinic Dr. Heck, will be happy to support you on the way to your new life.