For a long time, in photos as well as on TV sets, Camille Cerf’s legs remained in the background. Loose pants, long dresses: the former Miss France avoided showing them. In a recent Instagram video, she decided to tell what’s really going on.
Behind this camouflage, Camille Cerf explains that she suffers from lipedema, a chronic disease that is still little known. His legs swell, become painful, marked with bruises, without exercise or monitored diet really changing the situation. She now chooses to talk about it to more than 1.2 million subscribers.
Camille Cerf finally dares to talk about her legs
Camille Cerf says she had the impression for a long time that her legs did not match the rest of her body. Swelling at the end of the day, increased heaviness when it is hot, discomfort in a swimsuit: this complex followed her well after her title of Miss France 2015.
By speaking out on Instagram, she wants to break the taboo around this illness, often described as invisible. Building on her notoriety, she hopes that her testimony will help other women to put a name to their pain and to seek medical advice.
Lipedema, a still little-known chronic disease
Lipedema is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat under the skin, especially on the hips, thighs and legs. The Vaudois University Hospital Center, cited by 20 Minutes, describes three stages, the most advanced giving the appearance of pole legs.
According to these same sources, this pathology almost exclusively affects women, often between 15 and 30 years old, sometimes after pregnancy or at menopause. Affected people report pain, a feeling of heavy legs and mobility problems, recalls HuffPost.
What to do about lipedema and its symptoms
Because it increases the volume of the lower limbs, lipedema is often confused with obesity or cellulite. Many patients see their legs remain swollen despite diets and sport, which fuels guilt and incomprehension.
Doctors point out that there is no curative treatment, but that appropriate care can provide relief and slow down the progression. Physical activity, weight control, medical monitoring and sometimes compression clothing are cited by 20 Minutes, while specialized associations encourage psychological support.
What is lipedema?
It is a chronic disease of the fat under the skin, which especially swells legs and thighs.
Can lipedema be cured?
There is no cure, but treatment can reduce the symptoms.
When to consult for lipedema?
If you have painful and swollen legs, it is advisable to talk to your doctor.
