Lipoma Symptoms & Causes

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The symptoms

Soft lump

They are squishy and soft to the touch.

Painless

Most do not hurt, but some may squeeze nerves or blood vessels and lead to mild pain.

Slow growth

They grow very slowly over long periods of time.

Movable

You can shift them around a bit beneath your skin.

Size

They are often small, about 2 inches or less.

When to see a doctor?

Consultation Is The Key

Can lipoma affect me?

If you develop a lipoma that suddenly starts growing rapidly, you should go see a doctor, as it might be something other than a harmless lump. It’s also a good idea to have it checked if it becomes painful lipomas, particularly if it puts pressure on your nerves or blood vessels. If that lump feels hard, strange or grows in size, you should get it checked out as well. Redness, swelling or signs of infection are other reasons to see a doctor. Also, if it develops into large lipomas larger than 2 inches. Finally, there is a very small chance that what looks like a lipoma is actually a type of cancer called liposarcoma, so, getting a medical opinion is always a good idea, to be sure it isn’t anything serious.

Advised treatments

Lipoma-removal

Skin Treatment

Liposuction

Skin Treatment

The causes

What are the causes of lipoma?

While the precise cause of this growth is not known, there are some common patterns. They are more common in men and women at middle age and often run in families. Occasionally lipomas emerge following an injury, but it’s not known if that causes them. Lipomas are rarely associated with conditions such as:

Dercum’s disease:Tender lipomas of the arms, legs, and trunk that are painful.
Gardner syndrome: Genetic condition leading to multiple lipomas throughout the body.
Madelung’s disease: Multiple painful lipomas of the neck, shoulders, and arms, sometimes associated with heavy alcohol consumption.
Hereditary multiple lipomatosis: Harmless lipomas on the trunk, arms and legs, and are inherited.

The risk factors

Who is at risk for lipoma?

Risk factors may include:

Obesity: Most lipomas develop from extra fat accumulating in those at risk for being overweight.
High cholesterol: High cholesterol can interfere with your body’s ability to metabolize fat and cause lipomas.
Diabetes: Diabetes patients have higher fat in their body, which may produce lipomas.

The complications

Hidden Dangers

What will happen if it is left untreated?

Pain
Giant lipomas can be painful if they compress a nerve.
Nerve problems
Lipomas that develop near nerves can cause numbness, tingling or weakness.

Limited movement
A lipoma in a confined space can constrain movement comfortably.
Infection
Lipomas can become infected if injured.

The prevention

Prevention Of Lipoma With A Healthy Diet

Does healthy eating prevent lipomas?

A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats may help prevent lipomas. Maintaining a healthy weight may also decrease the risk of fat accumulation beneath the skin that may cause lipomas.

Avoiding processed foods

Reducing intake of foods high in unhealthy fats and sugar is the right approach. Consuming whole foods allows you to maintain a healthy body and may prevent excess fat from accumulating, possibly lowering the risk of lipomas.

Regular Exercise

Does exercise have a role in preventing lipomas?

Regular exercise will keep your weight under control and also prevents fat accumulation. So, it can decrease the risk of lipomas. Physical activity also helps your body move smoothly and promotes good circulation.

Exercise regularly to lower the risk

Aim to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days. When you’re more active, your body is healthy and fat doesn’t accumulate, which may even help prevent lipomas.

Keep Cholesterol In Check

Will controlling cholesterol levels help with lipoma?

Yes, it’s important to keep your cholesterol in check. Aside from fat, high cholesterol can also lead to fat buildup in the body, which is the condition that might cause lipomas. The majority of people with a lipoma only have one, but more than one lipoma can grow. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help control cholesterol.

Monitors your cholesterol levels effectively

Exercise, eat healthily and don’t smoke – all of these can help keep your cholesterol in check. Regular checkups with your doctor can help ensure that you keep your cholesterol at a healthy level.

Genetic Link To Lipomas

Does family history play a role in lipoma prevention?

Yes, it is possible if you have a family history of lipomas to be more likely to develop them. You can’t change your genes, but staying healthy and looking out for lipoma signs can greatly help.

Familial multiple lipomatosis: management

In the case of family history of lipomas, you should go for regular checkup with your doctor to seek management of the condition. Although it can’t be avoided, early intervention and monitoring of lipomas can help you manage one if you get it and also minimize potential issues.

Protecting From Injuries

Why do injuries cause lipomas?

In some cases, lipomas may develop following an injury, although it’s not always clear why. Avoiding trauma entirely by using proper gear or avoiding accidents can help lower your chances of developing lipomas after an injury.

Tips to avoid injuries

Use proper protective equipment when playing sports, stay safe with risky activities, and be aware of the area around you to reduce risk of injury. Complying with these steps minimizes the risk of getting injured.