Lipedema is a chronic, long-term condition related to abnormal fat buildup in the legs, hips, buttocks and sometimes arms and upper body. Both sides of the body can be affected, and this fatty deposit buildup is primarily seen in women.
Lymphedema is a disorder of the lymphatic system and occurs when the system has been damaged or blocked. Pain and swelling can appear in the legs, abdomen and pelvic areas, arms, shoulders, and chest. Lymphedema and lipedema can be, but are not always, related, and many times they are misdiagnosed and under diagnosed. The conditions are also sometimes confused as one another as the symptoms can seem similar.
