Swelling in the legs is common, but its cause is not always easy to identify. Two conditions that are frequently confused are lymphedema and lipedema. Although they can produce similar symptoms, they affect the body differently and require an accurate diagnosis to guide care.

The Vein Institute of New Jersey now offers specialized evaluation and management for patients experiencing symptoms associated with these conditions.

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system cannot adequately drain lymph fluid, causing it to accumulate in the body’s tissues. It most commonly affects an arm or leg and may develop because of an inherited lymphatic condition or damage resulting from surgery, cancer treatment, infection or trauma.

Symptoms may include:

• Swelling in one or both limbs
• A feeling of heaviness or tightness
• Reduced flexibility or range of motion
• Thickening or hardening of the skin
• Recurring skin infections

Lymphedema is a chronic condition, but early treatment can help control swelling, protect the skin and improve mobility.

What Is Lipedema?

Lipedema is a chronic disorder involving an abnormal and disproportionate accumulation of fat, most commonly in the hips, thighs and legs. It primarily affects women and often appears or worsens during periods of hormonal change, such as puberty, pregnancy or menopause.

Unlike ordinary weight gain, lipedema typically:

• Affects both sides of the body symmetrically
• Causes the legs to appear disproportionate to the upper body
• Usually stops at the ankles, leaving the feet unaffected
• Produces tenderness, aching or sensitivity
• Causes easy bruising
• Does not respond to diet and exercise in the same way as ordinary body fat

Some individuals with advanced lipedema can also develop impaired lymphatic drainage.

Why an Accurate Diagnosis Matters

Lymphedema and lipedema can resemble venous disease, obesity and other causes of leg swelling. Some patients have a combination of venous disease and lymphedema or lipedema. When all three are present, it is called phlebo-lipo-lymphedema. At the Vein Institute, all patients who present with leg swelling are screened for vein disease. A thorough evaluation helps determine what is contributing to the symptoms and whether more than one condition is present.

Treatment recommendations may include compression, exercise, skin care, weight management, referral for specialized therapy and other measures based on the individual’s diagnosis and needs.

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Meet Our Expert: Elizabeth Coll, DNP, APN, RVT

Elizabeth Coll is a board-certified acute care nurse practitioner and Registered Vascular Technologist with more than 20 years of experience in vascular disease, lymphedema management and wound care. She is also a member of the American Vein and Lymphatic Society.

Elizabeth brings extensive clinical knowledge to this new service at the Vein Institute of New Jersey, helping patients better understand their symptoms and develop an appropriate management plan.

If you experience persistent or unexplained leg swelling, discomfort, heaviness or changes in the shape of your legs, schedule an evaluation with the Vein Institute of New Jersey.