Lymphedema vs. Lipedema: How to Tell the Difference (and What You Can Do About It)

If you’ve been struggling with swelling, discomfort, or changes in how your body feels—and haven’t gotten clear answers—you’re not alone. One of the most common concerns I hear from new clients is:

“I’m not sure if this is lymphedema or lipedema—or both.”

And the truth is, these two conditions often overlap in symptoms but require different approaches when it comes to long-term care. Let’s walk through the key differences and what you can do if you’re dealing with one (or both).

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a condition where lymphatic fluid builds up in the tissues due to a compromised or under-functioning lymphatic system. It can be:

• Primary (from birth or genetic causes), or

• Secondary (caused by surgery, radiation, trauma, or infection)
  
  

It usually causes swelling in the arms, legs, feet, or genitals and can progress if not managed.

Signs of Lymphedema include:

• Swelling that worsens throughout the day

• Feeling of heaviness or tightness

• Changes in skin texture (fibrosis or hardening)

• Skin thickening or papillomas in advanced stages
  

What Is Lipedema?

Lipedema is a chronic fat disorder, typically affecting women, that causes disproportionate fat accumulation in the legs, hips, buttocks, and sometimes arms—but not the hands or feet. It’s often misdiagnosed as simple obesity or dismissed entirely.

Signs of Lipedema include:

• Fat deposits that are painful to the touch

• Easy bruising

• Cold, spongy tissue

• Symmetrical swelling (legs affected evenly)

• Swelling that doesn’t respond to elevation
  
  

Many clients with lipedema may later develop secondary lymphedema—known as lipo-lymphedema—when the lymphatic system becomes overwhelmed.

So What Should You Do if You’re Not Sure?

You don’t need a formal diagnosis to start getting support.

Many of our clients come in feeling confused, overwhelmed, or misdiagnosed. What matters most is that you’re noticing a problem—and you want real strategies that help you feel better, not just another round of dead-end advice.

What We Focus on Inside the Lymphatic Wellness Hub

Whether you’re dealing with lymphedema, lipedema, or some overlap of both, here’s what we help you build inside our coaching program:

✅ Healthy Lymphatic Habits

Simple, realistic routines that promote drainage, reduce inflammation, and protect your skin—without relying solely on massage or clinic visits.

🧘 Targeted Movement & Compression

We tailor strategies based on your body’s needs, including how to:

• Pick the right compression garments (flat knit, circular knit, wraps)

• Move in ways that encourage flow—not flare-ups

• Support affected areas without overtraining

🍽️ Nutrition That Supports, Not Restricts

We avoid fad diets and instead focus on reducing inflammatory triggers while nourishing your lymphatic system with whole foods and sustainable choices.

Final Thoughts

Getting clarity on whether you have lymphedema, lipedema, or both can feel like solving a mystery. But the most important step is to stop spinning your wheels—and start building daily strategies that help you feel more in control.

You don’t need to wait for a perfect diagnosis to start healing.

👉 Book a free 15-minute exploration call with our team to share what you're experiencing. We’ll help guide you toward the most supportive next step—even if that’s just getting some clarity.