Lipedema is a chronic condition that causes serious health problems and immense social and emotional suffering for millions of women in Germany. But how does lipedema come about? In this article, we at med-plast want to explain whether lipedema is hereditary.
Causes of lipedema
So far, scientists are not yet definitively clear about how lipedema occurs. Since the fat-distribution disorder mainly affects women, it is assumed that there is a connection with female hormones. Especially after a hormonal change such as puberty or pregnancy, lipedema can develop. However, it is also assumed that, alongside hormonal changes, genetic predisposition plays a role.
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Is lipedema hereditary?
The predisposition to develop lipedema is probably hereditary. If you know that your parents or grandparents have lipedema, you should always tell your doctor. This may have an influence on the lipedema diagnosis.
The role of lipedema heredity
If you suspect you have lipedema, your treating physician may ask you whether lipedema is already known in your family. This is because the predisposition to lipedema may be hereditary. However, the exact role of lipedema heredity has not yet been conclusively established. The following therefore reflects the current scientific assumptions.
A genetic view of lipedema
For a genetic view of lipedema, let's take a short detour into genetics. Scientists suspect that the predisposition to develop lipedema follows an autosomal-dominant inheritance pattern. This form of lipedema inheritance can, as a rule, only occur in women.
Does lipedema have to be inherited?
The predisposition to lipedema can be hereditary, but it does not have to be. If you have lipedema, this does not automatically mean that lipedema will be passed on to your children. Likewise, it is possible to pass on the predisposition to lipedema without the condition ever developing. However, if symptoms do appear in your children, there is an increased probability, especially in daughters, that the predisposition to lipedema was inherited.
How do I know if my children have a predisposition to lipedema?
If you are concerned that your daughter may also develop lipedema, pay particular attention to changes in the body during hormonal changes. If your child has stocky legs after puberty despite an otherwise slim body and a healthy diet, this can be an early sign of lipedema. If pain in the legs occurs as well, you should consult a doctor who specializes in lipedema.
If you believe you have lipedema, or suspect lipedema in your children, feel free to reach out to our med-plast team. Our specialized lipedema doctors will be happy to advise you in detail about the treatment options at our Lipedema Clinic in Berlin. Book an appointment now.
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