Preventing Blood Clots in Lipedema and Lymphedema Patients: Key VTE Insights
June is Lipedema Awareness Month, a crucial time to shed light on the unique challenges faced by those with lipedema and lymphedema. One significant concern is the increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in these patients. Recent studies, including one by Dr. Scott Cameron, funded by the Lipedema Foundation, highlight the urgent need for awareness and early intervention to prevent serious complications. But what exactly is VTE, and why are lipedema and lymphedema patients more prone to it?
What is Venous Thromboembolism (VTE)?
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is where blood clots form in the veins. It includes two serious conditions:
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs.
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): This happens if a part of the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, blocking a blood vessel and potentially causing life-threatening complications.
VTE is a serious health issue because it can lead to long-term complications, including chronic pain, swelling, and, in severe cases, death.
What Typically Causes VTE?
Several factors can contribute to the development of VTE:
- Immobility: Prolonged periods of inactivity, such as during long flights or bed rest, can reduce blood flow and increase the risk of clot formation.
- Surgery and Trauma: Major surgeries, especially those involving the legs or hips, and significant injuries can damage blood vessels, leading to clot formation.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and inflammatory diseases, can increase the risk of VTE.
- Obesity: Excess weight puts additional pressure on the veins, slowing blood flow and contributing to clot formation.
- Hormonal Factors: Pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy, and the use of birth control pills can increase the risk of VTE due to changes in hormone levels that affect blood clotting.
- Genetic Factors: A family history of VTE or inherited clotting disorders can significantly increase the risk.
Why Are Lipedema and Lymphedema Patients More Prone to VTE?
Several characteristics of lipedema and lymphedema contribute to the increased risk of VTE:
- Swelling and Fluid Accumulation: Both conditions involve significant swelling and fluid accumulation in the tissues. This can compress blood vessels and slow blood flow, increasing the likelihood of clot formation.
- Impaired Mobility: Reduced mobility is common in patients with lipedema and lymphedema. Lack of movement can cause blood to pool in the veins, a known risk factor for clot formation.
- Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of both conditions. Inflammation can damage the inner lining of blood vessels, making them more prone to developing clots.
- Obesity: Many patients with lipedema and lymphedema also struggle with obesity. Excess weight puts additional pressure on the veins, further slowing blood flow and increasing the risk of clot formation.
- Venous Insufficiency: Both conditions can lead to venous insufficiency, where the veins have difficulty sending blood from the limbs back to the heart. This can cause blood to pool and form clots.
Understanding the Risks of VTE in Lipedema and Lymphedema
Patients with lipedema and lymphedema often experience similar physical symptoms, such as swelling and tissue enlargement, which can lead to misdiagnosis. These conditions, coupled with obesity, significantly impair mobility. Reduced mobility is a known risk factor for VTE, a condition where blood clots form in the veins, potentially leading to life-threatening complications like pulmonary embolism.
A recent study published in Vascular Medicine by Khalid MU et al. analyzed data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) between 2016 and 2020. The study examined hospital admissions of obese female patients with lipedema and lymphedema to evaluate the association of these conditions with VTE.
Key Findings
The study revealed striking findings:
- Lymphedema and VTE: Among patients with obesity, VTE was more common in those with lymphedema than those without (2.6% vs. 1.6%). That is over a 60% increase in the risk of a VTE.
- Lipedema and VTE: VTE was more prevalent in patients with lipedema than those without (0.6% vs. 0.4%). That is 1.5 X higher or a 50% increased risk for a blood clot or Pulmonary Embolism.
- Increased Risk: After adjusting for baseline characteristics, the odds of experiencing a VTE event were 1.6 times higher in obese patients with lymphedema and 1.2 times higher in obese patients with lipedema compared to those without these conditions.
These findings underscore the importance of recognizing lipedema and lymphedema as significant risk factors for VTE, particularly in obese patients.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early diagnosis and intervention are critical in managing lipedema and lymphedema and mitigating the risk of VTE. Regular monitoring, maintaining mobility, and employing appropriate therapeutic measures can help manage symptoms and reduce complications.
This research emphasizes the need for ongoing studies to understand better the mechanisms linking these conditions to VTE. Healthcare providers should be vigilant in monitoring at-risk patients and implementing preventive strategies to improve patient outcomes.
Learn More about VTE, Lipedema, and Lymphedema Treatment at St. Louis Laser Veins
We encourage you to explore these studies and stay informed about the latest advancements in treatment and care for lipedema and lymphedema. By increasing awareness and understanding of these conditions, we can work towards better health and quality of life for those affected.
For more information and to schedule a consultation, visit us at St. Louis Laser Veins. More importantly, contact Dr. Wright’s St. Louis-based team to set up a consultation if you think you might have Lipedema or lymphedema or have questions about these diseases or VTE. By promoting early intervention, we can help raise awareness and improve the lives of those living with lipedema and lymphedema. We’re here to help!
References
- Khalid MU, Prasada S, Jennings C, Bartholomew JR, McCarthy M, Hornacek DA, Joseph D, Chen W, Schwarz G, Bhandari R, Elbadawi A, Cameron SJ. Venous thromboembolic outcomes in patients with lymphedema and lipedema: An analysis from the National Inpatient Sample. Vasc Med. 2024 Feb;29(1):42-47. doi: 10.1177/1358863X231219006. PMID: 38334096.
