Lipedema IQ

Free Assessment

Do I have lipedema?

Answer 5 questions about your symptoms to see whether they align with common lipedema patterns. Takes under 2 minutes. No sign-up required.

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How often do you experience swelling in your legs or arms that doesn't go away overnight?

Lipedema-related swelling often feels different from fluid retention — it tends to be persistent and is not relieved by elevating the legs.

What is lipedema?

Lipedema (also spelled lipoedema) is a chronic condition affecting an estimated 1 in 9 women. It causes a symmetrical, disproportionate accumulation of fat — most commonly in the legs, hips, and buttocks — that is painful, tender to touch, and resistant to diet and exercise.

Despite affecting millions, lipedema is widely underdiagnosed. The average person waits over 10 years for a correct diagnosis, often being told to simply lose weight. Recognising the symptom pattern is the first step toward getting the right care.

Common signs of lipedema

  • Symmetrical swelling in both legs

    Lipedema almost always affects both sides of the body equally. The swelling tends to stop at the ankles, creating a noticeable "cuff" effect. Unlike fluid retention, it does not go down overnight.

  • Pain and tenderness on pressure

    The affected tissue is often sensitive to light touch or pressure — pain disproportionate to the contact applied. This is one of the most distinguishing features from general weight gain.

  • Easy bruising

    People with lipedema frequently bruise easily with minimal impact. This is thought to be related to increased fragility of the small blood vessels within the affected tissue.

  • Heaviness and fatigue in the legs

    A persistent sense of heaviness, tightness, or fatigue in the legs — particularly by the end of the day or after standing — is a common symptom. Heat and hormonal changes often make it worse.

  • Disproportionate lower body size

    The body shape is disproportionate: the lower half is significantly larger relative to the upper body, and this does not change with weight loss. Clothes often need to be different sizes on top and bottom.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if I have lipedema?+
Lipedema is typically characterised by symmetrical swelling in both legs (and sometimes arms) that is unrelated to general weight gain, painful or tender to touch, and resistant to diet and exercise. The feet and hands are usually unaffected. A formal diagnosis requires assessment by a clinician familiar with the condition, but recognising the symptom pattern is an important first step.
What does lipedema feel like?+
Most people with lipedema describe a feeling of heaviness, tightness, or pressure in the legs. The tissue is often tender or painful when pressed, and bruises easily with minimal impact. Symptoms frequently worsen during hot weather, prolonged standing, or around hormonal changes such as menstruation.
What is the difference between lipedema and obesity?+
Lipedema fat is disproportionate — it accumulates symmetrically in the lower body regardless of overall body weight and does not respond to calorie restriction or exercise the way regular fat does. People with lipedema often have a noticeable size difference between their upper and lower body. The tissue is also typically soft, painful, and prone to bruising — unlike general adipose tissue.
Is lipedema the same as lymphedema?+
No. Lipedema is a chronic fat tissue disorder. Lymphedema is swelling caused by damage or blockage in the lymphatic system. They can co-exist (a combination called lipo-lymphedema), but they have different causes and presentations. Lipedema typically affects both sides of the body equally; lymphedema is more often asymmetric.
Can this symptom checker diagnose lipedema?+
No. This tool is not a medical diagnostic device. It identifies whether your self-reported symptoms align with patterns commonly associated with lipedema. Only a qualified clinician can provide a formal diagnosis. If your results suggest a moderate or high likelihood, we encourage you to seek an evaluation from a doctor familiar with lipedema.

Tracking your symptoms is how you get taken seriously

A one-time assessment is a starting point. Lipedema IQ helps you build a day-by-day symptom record — the kind of evidence that changes conversations with clinicians.

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Learn more

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Important: Lipedema IQ is a personal health tracking tool. It is not a medical device and does not provide diagnoses, treatment recommendations, or clinical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical decisions.