Lipedema Self-Test: Do I Have Lipedema? Check Your Symptoms Now

Start Self-Test

Do you experience unexplained pain or pressure sensitivity in your arms, legs or other areas of the body? Have you noticed increasing fat deposits that do not respond to diet or exercise? These may be signs of lipedema.

Lipedema is a chronic fat distribution disorder that affects almost exclusively women. It is characterised by symmetrical fat accumulation, primarily in the limbs, often accompanied by pain, swelling and reduced mobility.

Please note: this test is not part of NHS screening and does not replace medical evaluation.

LIPOCURA® Lipedema Self-Test: How It Works & What to Expect

Although an estimated one in ten women may be affected, lipedema is still frequently misdiagnosed or confused with general overweight in the UK. This can delay appropriate clinical assessment.

The LIPOCURA® self-test has been developed by our clinical team to help individuals reflect on their symptoms and consider whether further medical evaluation may be appropriate.

Do I have lipedema? Take the lipedema self-test in just a few minutes:

Self-test

Lipedema self-test

Question 1 from 9
How can you influence your body shape with strict dieting and regular exercise?
When you gain or lose weight, what can you observe on your hands and feet?
When you eat carbohydrate‑rich food in the evening and have a glass of wine, what do you observe the next day?
Do you feel any tissue changes in areas that are resistant to weight loss?
Which areas remain unchanged despite diet and exercise? Select all that apply or skip if none.
Do you have fatty deposits in these typical lipedema areas? Select all that apply or skip if none.
Do you experience pain when touched, for example when a child or pet sits on your lap?
When did your complaints or physical changes start?
Please click at which stage you see yourself.
back
Next question

Table of content

How the Lipedema Self-Test Works

The self-test includes questions relating to typical symptom presentation, such as fat distribution in the legs and arms, sensitivity or pain in affected areas and accompanying features such as swelling or easy bruising.

The questions are based on the clinical experience of LIPOCURA®‘s specialist team and established medical knowledge. Illustrative images may assist with orientation. Your responses are evaluated anonymously and provide an indication of whether further medical assessment may be advisable.

Wie entsteht ein Lipödem

lipocura-erstberatung

How the Lipedema Test Supports Your Initial Assessment

The purpose of the test is to raise awareness of lipedema and to encourage timely clinical assessment where appropriate. If your responses suggest possible lipedema, it may be advisable to seek medical advice.

In the UK, the diagnostic pathway often begins with a GP appointment. If you are concerned about your symptoms, you may wish to speak to your GP to discuss referral or further evaluation. Some patients also seek assessment within a private specialist clinic.

This test does not replace clinical examination but may help you prepare for a medical consultation by clarifying your observations.

Tip for patients: consider keeping a brief symptom diary before your appointment – note whe symptoms are worst, which areas are affected and whether heaviness or pain changes with activity, heat or time of day. This can help structure your consultation.

After the Lipedema Self-Test: Your Next Steps

Verdacht auf Lipödem

A self-test can provide initial orientation, but it does not establish a diagnosis. The next steps should be considered carefully and based on medical evaluation.

What to Do If the Lipedema Self-Test Is Positive

If the result suggests possible lipedema, the following steps are recommended:

  • Schedule an appointment: Have your symptoms assessed by a medical professional.
  • Clinical assessment: A detailed medical history and physical examination are carried out; ultrasound or 3D imaging may be used as complementary tools.
  • Diagnostic clarification: The clinician confirms whether lipedema is present or whether alternative causes should be considered.
  • Treatment planning: If lipedema is diagnosed, an individual management plan is developed.
  • Therapeutic options: This may include conservative measures and, where clinically indicated, surgical treatment.

Lipedema Test Negative: What Does That Mean?

A negative result does not automatically exclude a medical condition, but it may provide reassurance or direction.

In this situation, the following may be considered:

  • Assessment of other causes – for example, lymphoedema, venous disorders, obesity or hormonal conditions.
  • Medical evaluation – a clinician can perform further clinical assessment where necessary.
  • Additional diagnostics – depending on findings, ultrasound, blood tests or other imaging may be appropriate.
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About the Lipedema Self-Test

Can I bring the result of the lipedema self-test to my medical evaluation?

Yes. Bringing your results to a consultation can help structure the medical history and highlight the symptoms most relevant to you. Although the test does not replace diagnosis, it may support focused discussion. Keeping a brief symptom record may also be helpful.

What should I do if I recognised possible lipedema symptoms in the test?

If you identify several typical symptoms – such as pain, heaviness or symmetrical fat distribution – it is advisable to seek medical advice. In the UK, this usually involves speaking to your GP or arranging specialist assessment. Early clinical evaluation supports appropriate management.

Is a positive lipedema test result equivalent to a diagnosis?

No. Even if the answers suggest possible lipedema, the result does not replace a medical diagnosis. Confirmation requires clinical assessment, including medical history and physical examination, and where appropriate, further diagnostic procedures performed by a qualified specialist.

Is this lipedema self-test part of NHS screening?

No. This questionnaire is an independent self-assessment tool and is not part of NHS screening or any formal NHS diagnostic pathway.

Should I speak to my GP after completing the test?

If the test result suggests possible lipedema or if you remain concerned about your symptoms, it is advisable to speak to your GP. Your GP can assess your symptoms and discuss possible referral options.

Can I use the test result to request a GP referral in the UK?

You may bring your test result to your GP appointment as supporting information. While the test does not replace medical evaluation, it may help structure the consultation and clarify your concerns.

What if my GP is unfamiliar with lipedema?

Lipedema is still not routinely recognised in all areas of the UK healthcare system. If uncertainty remains after initial consultation, further specialist assessment may be considered – including within a private specialist clinic such as LIPOCURA®.

Is private assessment an option in the UK?

Yes. Some patients choose to seek evaluation within a private specialist clinic, particularly if waiting times for referral are prolonged or if more specialised assessment is required.

Make appointment online