A pathological increase in fatty tissue on the extremities - this is how the clinical picture of "lipoedema" can be described in a few words. The fat deposits usually affect the legs - but in many patients, lipoedema occurs on the arms. In this blog post, we explain how the fat distribution disorder on the arms occurs and how we can help you if you are affected.
Lipoedema on the arms: Facts about the fat distribution disorder
Lipoedema - whether on the arms or legs - is more than just an unsightly appearance. It is a chronic and serious disease that cannot be cured. However, the symptoms can be treated with consistent or surgical therapy. The main sufferers of lipoedema are women, sometimes also girls. Men rarely suffer from it.
Unfortunately, too little is currently known about the causes of the disease. Experts suspect that the influence of hormones can cause the pathological fat distribution disorders. The reason for this assumption is that the symptoms usually develop or worsen during phases of hormonal change (e.g. towards the end of puberty, during pregnancy or during the menopause). However, a genetic predisposition is also conceivable, as in many cases a familial clustering of lipoedema can be observed.
Lipoedema on the arms or legs cannot be treated with diets or exercise. The disease is progressive. This means that the fat deposits on the extremities can increase over time.
Lipoedema on the arms: These are the symptoms
Lipoedema on the arms can manifest itself in different ways. The symptoms can occur together, but also individually:
- Unequal proportions: A slim upper body with a significant increase in the volume of fatty tissue on the arms, i.e. with thicker arms or upper arms
- Symmetrical findings: Both arms are equally affected by lipoedema
- The swelling is limited to the arms and does not spread to the hands and fingers
- Fast and comparatively easy formation of bruises
- Tightness and sensitivity to touch of the skin on the arms
- Pain on touch and pressure, which can sometimes be very severe
- The arms feel heavy
- Bead formation on the arms is possible in the further course of the disease
Lipoedema on the arms: Three stages
As with the legs, lipoedema on the arms usually progresses in three stages:
Lipoedema stage 1
The first stage is characterised by thickened subcutaneous tissue. The fat structure appears finely nodular, but the skin surface is still smooth.
Lipoedema stage 2
In the second stage, the fat structure becomes increasingly coarse-knotted and the skin surface becomes more uneven.
Lipoedema stage 3
The tissue becomes harder and harder. Large, deforming fat flaps can become visible.
Lipoedema on the arms: These types exist
Upper arm type
The disease extends over the upper arms. They are significantly thicker than the rest.
Whole arm type
Both upper arms and lower arms are affected by lipoedema.
Forearm type
Only the forearms are thick.
Lipoedema on the arms: What to do after the diagnosis?
If a woman notices that her arms are changing and showing the symptoms mentioned above, then prompt action is required. By making an appointment with a doctor soon and having herself examined, the diagnosis can be ruled out or confirmed. If the latter is the case, the swelling, pain and discomfort can be treated conventionally in the early stages, e.g. with lymphatic drainage or compression garments.
If the degree of lipoedema on the arms is very severe and the patient's quality of life is limited, lipoedema surgery can also help. Excess fat cells are gently removed by liposuction. This therapy is regarded as an effective, long-lasting treatment for lipoedema.
Treating lipoedema on the arms: Liposuction at the Acura Clinic in Weert
Patients with lipoedema on the arms or legs are in good hands with us. We are familiar with the condition and have a lot of experience in performing liposuction in this particular case.
Feel free to contact us to arrange an appointment!
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