Lipoedema can bring with it many symptoms – one of which is persistent tiredness, which can sometimes manifest itself in severe exhaustion. Even if you get enough sleep as a lipoedema sufferer, you may feel drained, which can have a significant impact on your everyday life.
Do you suffer from lipoedema and know the feeling of being constantly tired? We would like to explain the links between lipoedema and fatigue and inform you about treatment options. Our experts will also be happy to welcome you for a personal consultation.
Causes of fatigue in lipoedema
Lipoedema is a pathological fat distribution disorder that particularly affects women. It manifests itself in an often painful accumulation of fatty tissue. The causes of this disease have not yet been fully researched, but it is assumed that several factors play a role – in addition to genetic predisposition, hormonal changes also play a role, for example.
Lipedema and the influence of hormones
It can be assumed that oestrogen and progesterone in particular can influence the development and severity or progression of lipoedema. If there are changes in the hormone balance or an imbalance, the symptoms can worsen, which can ultimately also lead to fatigue.
In some cases, impaired hormone balance in lipoedema is also associated with hypothyroidism. If there is a lack of thyroid hormones, many bodily functions are slowed down or throttled. Pronounced fatigue with a lack of drive and depressive mood is a frequent accompaniment.
Impaired lymph flow and its consequences
Other possible causes of severe fatigue in lipoedema include impaired lymph flow. Disorders in the lymphatic system can lead to the accumulation of fluid, which leads to swelling and can increase fatigue.
The aforementioned fluid build-up in the tissue can also result in reduced blood flow, which leads to impaired oxygen and nutrient transport to the cells. This reduces energy levels and makes you feel much more exhausted. The accumulation of fluid is also associated with a chronic inflammatory condition. This can further increase the feeling of tiredness.
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Treatment options: Combating lipedema fatigue
An early diagnosis of lipoedema is important in order to be able to treat the condition successfully and thus also combat fatigue. Depending on the severity and symptoms, various treatments can help to improve the symptoms.
However, conservative methods such as adjusting the diet, compression or exercise therapy usually only provide temporary relief from the symptoms. In many cases, only liposuction, a lipoedema operation in which the affected fat cells are removed by suction, provides lasting treatment success. This operation can also reduce the feeling of fatigue, because:
- If excess fatty tissue is removed, blood vessels are relieved. Blood circulation improves, as does the supply of oxygen and nutrients. This can also alleviate fatigue.
- Liposuction can normalize the hormone balance. This can also have a positive effect on the entire body.
- If inflamed fatty tissue is removed and the inflammation levels are reduced as a result, many patients feel much more vital.
- And ultimately, the psyche also benefits from the surgical procedure. The disease often leads to psychological stress associated with exhaustion and depression. If the external appearance is improved by liposuction, the psychological well-being of patients also increases.
Conservative measures for accompanying therapy are recommended. These include wearing compression stockings, manual lymphatic drainage as well as sufficient exercise and a conscious, balanced diet. These measures can help to decongest the lymph vessels, reduce swelling of the legs and improve blood circulation, which ultimately has a positive effect on the patient’s vitality.
Conclusion: Treat lipoedema and fatigue with our experts
Do you suffer from lipoedema and are you looking for an effective treatment that also combats your fatigue? We are experts in the field of lipoedema. We are happy to take the time for a detailed consultation to inform you and advise you on your treatment options. Arrange your appointment now, we look forward to hearing from you.
FAQ
What causes fatigue in lipoedema?
What causes fatigue in lipoedema?
There are various factors that can contribute to fatigue in lipoedema. These include genetic factors, hormonal fluctuations and inflammatory processes in the body.
How are lipedema and hormonal fluctuations connected?
How are lipedema and hormonal fluctuations connected?
A hormonal imbalance is often observed in lipoedema patients. Such fluctuations can exacerbate lipoedema symptoms and lead to fatigue.
How does impaired lymph flow contribute to fatigue?
How does impaired lymph flow contribute to fatigue?
A disturbed function of the lymph flow can lead to a build-up of fluid in the tissue. This not only leads to swelling, but can also contribute to increased fatigue.
Can hypothyroidism in lipoedema cause fatigue?
Can hypothyroidism in lipoedema cause fatigue?
Yes, hypothyroidism is a common concomitant symptom of lipoedema. It is often associated with persistent fatigue.
How is lipedema treated and can the treatment affect fatigue?
How is lipedema treated and can the treatment affect fatigue?
Liposuction is effective in the long term. By removing the fatty tissue, numerous complaints can be alleviated, including fatigue. Conservative measures should also be used.
Written by:
Dr. med. Nauras Abuagela
Specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery
Specialist in gentle anti-ageing treatments and innovative laser medicine. Dr. Abuagela combines medical expertise with a keen sense of aesthetic harmony and has been successfully treating patients with state-of-the-art skin rejuvenation procedures for years.
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