What Are the Early Symptoms of Lipedema in the Arms?

The early symptoms of lipedema in the arms include excess fat build-up in the upper arms. Typically, lobules of fat appear on the underarm, causing a hanging appearance. The arms may also feel painful and heavy to move. They may bruise easily and be sensitive to the touch. The skin may also have a texture similar to grains of rice or peas due to the lipedema fat.

Do All Lipedema Sufferers Experience Symptoms in Their Arms?

Not all lipedema sufferers experience symptoms in their arms. Typically, lipedema affects the lower body. Nevertheless, a significant proportion of people do find excess lipedema fat on their arms. The exact percentage of sufferers with arm symptoms remains unclear and could be anywhere from 30% to 90%.  When symptoms develop in the arms, they usually appear later than those in the lower body.

How Do I Spot the Difference Between Lipedema in the Arms and Obesity?

Many people confuse lipedema and obesity with each other. Even many doctors fail to spot the differences between the two conditions, especially in lipedema’s early stages. Indeed, the two conditions often co-exist. People who suffer from lipedema may also develop obesity secondary to their condition. But the two conditions are not the same.

It’s not too difficult to see why the confusion exists. Both conditions involve fat. However, the cause of the condition and the fat itself are different in each case. Lipedema fat has a different composition and texture. It is fibrous and nodular, while regular fat is fluffy and soft in texture. Also, regular fat responds to exercise and eating healthily. Lipedema fat, on the other hand, does not. Furthermore, lifestyle factors cause obesity, whereas they don’t cause lipedema. The cause of lipedema remains unclear but is likely to have genetic and hormonal components.

If your excess fat has a nodular texture and doesn’t respond to lifestyle changes, you probably have lipedema, not obesity.

How Do I Know if I Have Lipedema in My Arms?

Common signs of lipedema to look out for in the arms include:

• Symmetrical distribution of fat in the arms: They develop a column-like appearance that looks the same on both sides of the body.
• More pronounced fat on the upper arms
• Lobules of fat hanging from the underarm
• Sensitivity and tenderness to the touch
• Discomfort or pain, especially with pressure on the area when wearing close-fitting clothes or when hugging, for example.
• Aching and heaviness, especially after prolonged lifting, carrying or keeping the arms raised.
• Arms that are larger than the rest of the upper body and out of proportion with the chest and neck.
• Easy bruising on arms from minor bumps
• The skin of the arms has a dimpled, smooth appearance but may also have the texture of rice or peas.

Does Lipedema Progress in the Arms?

Lipedema is a chronic, progressive condition. As it worsens over time in the legs and lower body, it worsens in the arms, too. Without treatment, the arms become more disproportionate and visibly swollen over time. Over time, the texture of the arm fat may change, too. You may notice firmer fat with lumps and nodules palpable underneath the skin. You may also find your arm mobility is negatively affected, with your arms feeling tight and painful when you move them.

How Can I Spot the Difference Between Lymphedema and Lipedema in the Arms?

Lymphedema and lipedema sound similar and have some similarities in their presentation. Therefore, many people mistake the two conditions for each other. However, they are not the same. Both conditions cause swelling of the limbs, but they have different causes. While lipedema is a fat-related condition, lymphedema is caused by a build-up of lymphatic fluid. Both conditions can cause pain and swelling in the limbs. However, in cases of lymphedema, swelling typically affects one side of the body. In cases of lipedema, the swelling is symmetrical on both sides.

How Do I Get a Lipedema in the Arms Diagnosis?

Getting a diagnosis of lipedema can be quite challenging. There is a lack of awareness about this condition, even though around 11% of women suffer from it. Even doctors can struggle to spot it, particularly in its early stages. Therefore, if you suspect you may suffer from lipedema, consulting a specialist in the field is crucial. A specialist has the necessary skills and expertise to identify lipedema even in its early stages. They can also offer the most effective treatments.

Getting a diagnosis as quickly as possible is vital if you have lipedema. Early diagnosis leads to early treatment and, in turn, better outcomes.

Dr. Su at ArtLipo is an expert in the fields of both liposuction and lipedema. As a leading specialist, he produces impressive results for lipedema sufferers. To find out more and to arrange a consultation, get in touch with ArtLipo today.