Talking About Lipoedema

Talking to Your Health Professional

Many health professionals are unaware of lipoedema, however stemming from increased awareness and recognition through organisations such as Lipoedema Australia, this is gradually changing. Lipoedema is often mistaken for obesity or lymphoedema, and to make things more complicated, obesity and lymphoedema can co-exist with lipoedema (as in lipo-lymphoedema). This is why it is important for you to obtain a correct diagnosis.

A diagnosis of Lipoedema is made on clinical grounds that are based on the history and examination of the patient. When the fat is touched, it will feel like round peas in a plastic bag. Larger nodules can also be felt. Currently, there are no known blood or urine biomarkers, nor are there any specific diagnostic tests for Lipoedema.

When visiting your medical professional, feel free to print out the Lipoedema Australia resources to take with you. We’ve included them for you on this page for easy access, and they’re also available in our Resources section.

The ‘Notes for Your GP Consult’ is a checklist of common symptoms for you to tick so that you have all of your symptoms noted in one place.

The ‘Information for Medical Professionals’ brochure is a handy reference guide for your medical professional, explaining the signs and symptoms of lipoedema. They can also access additional information on this website or by reaching out to us at info@lipoedema.org.au

Information for Health Professionals

A man in a grey suit with a blue tie looking directly at the camera. He is sitting in a medical research laboratory with various equipment to his right

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Lipoedema for Health Professionals Flyer

Talking to Friends, Family & Colleagues

The hard truth about lipoedema is that it’s a difficult condition for others to understand - the obvious issues come via fat-bias, and the fact that lipoedema is often associated with different types of pain, depending on the individual. It does help for those around us to have as much knowledge as possible, so it’s important to take the time to speak with our loved ones and colleagues about how lipoedema impacts us. Here are some tips from our board:

Do some reading about lipoedema

We have some great resources on the website. Learn about the common symptoms (especially those that you don’t have) and treatments so that you can answer any questions that may come your way.

Pick a suitable time & place to talk

Find a time that suits you both, and a place that is comfortable to sit and chat. Somewhere you won’t feel rushed is ideal. You may choose to go for a walk together while you talk - there’s no specific approach, do what’s right for you. Don’t be afraid to reschedule if life gets in the way.

What is lipoedema?

Describe what lipoedema is, and explain how it affects you; ie. heavy legs, pain, bruising and/or fatigue. Talk about any emotions you may have about lipoedema and how they make you feel.

What makes you feel better?

Talk about the things that make you feel worse, the things you have difficulty doing. Explain how hard it is to do the things you really want to do. More importantly, talk about the things that make you feel better!

Take all the time you need

Break up your chats over a few sessions, rather than covering everything at once. Have a cuppa or go for a walk while chatting. Schedule another time if you don’t get through everything.

They might not ‘get’ it

Be aware that your family, friends and colleagues probably won’t completely understand what you are going through. Their understanding is limited by not having a direct lived experience of lipoedema. Be kind to them, and to yourself.