Fatigue with lipoedema: symptoms, causes and measures

Fatigue is a classic symptom that plagues many patients affected by lipoedema and yet is often overlooked.

Frau schläft© Foto: Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

The classic fat distribution in the affected areas is visible, but fatigue is not. In addition, other causes are often assumed when those affected are repeatedly tired and unable to work under pressure. These causes may well be present, but they are massively exacerbated by lipoedema and the problems associated with it. The following article shows why lipoedema and fatigue are often linked and how those affected can get better.

New energy through liposuction - often the most effective solution

Liposuction, often referred to as "liposuction", is a great hope for patients with lipoedema. Losing weight alone - as unfortunately still claimed by many people who are not affected by the disease themselves - does not solve the problem. Often only liposuction can alleviate the symptoms of lipoedema. It may be a big decision to tackle lipoedema surgically, but if the legs are no longer so heavy after successful liposuction, those affected feel much better. More activities are possible again and fatigue usually subsides. This shows impressively how closely the heavy legs and other stresses of lipoedema and chronic fatigue are linked.

Where does fatigue in lipoedema actually come from?

The links between fatigue and lipoedema are complex. The body of lipoedema patients works hard. Not only does it have to carry the extra weight caused by the stubborn fat deposits, it also has to cope with the swelling, which is unfortunately regularly accompanied by inflammation. Pain also makes you tired and drains your energy. This in turn can lead to sleep disorders. If you don't sleep well at night, you are naturally not really fit the next day. This is all the more true if the poor sleep continues over a long period of time.

The following list shows some of the main reasons for the tiredness that so many lipoedema patients complain about:

  • Heavy weight, especially in the legs
  • Chronic pain
  • Inflammation in the tissue
  • Sleep disorders
  • Emotional and physical stress

Other ways to counteract fatigue in lipoedema

In addition to the liposuction already discussed, there are other ways to reduce the chronic fatigue of lipoedema sufferers and thus improve their quality of life. Roughly speaking, it can be said that everything that is generally recommended for lipoedema also helps with the other symptoms:

Stay active

Despite the restrictions caused by lipoedema, exercise is important. Swimming and cycling, for example, are good activities that do not strain the joints. Short walks are also recommended.

Pay attention to your diet

A healthy and balanced diet gives you energy. Although this does not make lipoedema go away, the right diet and sufficient fluid intake ensure that those affected feel a little better and can live better with the condition.

Seeking support

Unfortunately, many people who are not affected by lipoedema themselves often have little understanding of the problems associated with this condition. It is therefore good to be able to talk openly about all the symptoms in self-help groups.

Sufficient rest

Lipoedema is a stress factor in itself. It is therefore all the more important to reduce other causes of stress as much as possible. A fixed sleep rhythm and relaxing support through yoga or meditation, for example, ensure that you have more energy for the next day.