Lipedema, which is also known as painful fat syndrome, is abnormal symmetrical swelling due to
accumulations of fat and fluid located in the tissues just under the skin of the hips and legs, down to the
ankles but not extending to the feet. Also there are fatty bulges on the outer surfaces of the thighs. [1]
This inherited condition occurs almost exclusively in women and usually develops during puberty. Additional
causes of this consition include a hormone component, microcirculation disorders, and inflammation.

In the early stages of lipedema, the upper part of the body may be slim. Despite a slender upper body, fat
accumulates from the tops of the hips to the ankles.
As weight is gained, it accumulates in the areas of the hips and legs.
When weight is lost, the fat decrease occurs in areas other than those affected by lipedema. Weight loss
does not occur in the area between the waist and ankles.
Fat extends down the legs and creates a ring of fatty tissue that overlaps the tops of the feet.
Swelling develops in the legs during the second half of the day; however, this swelling decreases during sleep.
Pain is present, particularly along the shin.
In the early stages nodules develop.
In the later stages lobules develop.
Lipedema often causes bruising and subcutaneous bleeding.
As lipedema progresses into the later stages, secondary lymphedema affecting the legs often develops as a
complication. Swelling of the feet, and a positive Stemmer%u2019s sign, are indications that lymphedema is present.
Lipo-lymphedema is the combination of lipedema, obesity, and lymphedema. Lipo-lymphedema can also
develop in combination with chronic venous insufficiency, idiopathic edema, or other vascular disorders.

lot of money is required to buy all the items and treatments to try to keep the worse at bay, and it's difficult to be able to work normally, ergo to find a job.

Please, help us in making those costs prescribable on the NHS!

We the undersigned ask for an invalidity pension for Lymphoedema affected people: t trusting your care for health causes, we hope for a concrete economical help, because treatments are very expensive, and patients often can't attend work like other normal people.

Yours faithfully