Is Zepbound cheating? // WEIGH IN WEDNESDAY // weight gain, surgery updates, & NSV

[@thighsthelimit]

What are your thoughts on trying weight loss medications? Have you tried them before? What was your experience? Also, just want to say thank you to the sweet supportive people that have left comments so far. You guys are seriously the best community and I'm so grateful you're here. ♥ I hope y'all have the best weekend ever!

[@sarahibarra7486]

You are doing an amazing job. You are very self-aware and working hard. GLP-1 meds are absolutely NOT cheating. Would people consider taking antidepressants as cheating after being diagnosed with depression or anxiety?? No. Would people consider taking blood pressure meds as cheating after being diagnosed with high BP?? No. Then why are we judged for taking obesity meds? The people judging others truly do not know how it feels to struggle with addictions of any kind. I've been on wegovy for 2 months, down 13 lbs, and still working hard to stay on track and eat the right healthy food. What the medicine does to help is turning off the food impulses and helping us feel full to help stop binge eating. Good luck, keep up the good work and I'll be watching! 😊

[@thighsthelimit]

oh my gosh, thank you for this comment, that analogy is actually amazing and clicked with my brain. Thank you! Food addiction is no joke. Congrats on your weight loss! I'm glad it's working well for you. So far it's helping me most with the food noise. I can actually focus on life and not just the next thing I'm putting in my mouth. It's crazy. Thank you, and good luck on your journey as well! 🙂

[@DebbieHerbert]

Semaglutide is not cheating. I had the same hang-up because of other people's opinions BUT I started a low dosage of semaglutide two months ago and have lost a pound a week. Next Tuesday my dosage increases to one mg and I'm hoping I'll lose more quickly ...like 1.5 to 2 pounds per week. It's amazing how it shut down my former compulsive mind chatter to snack at night. I still eat the types of food I want, I don't believe in eliminating food groups or not having occasional desserts. I'm excited for you! I have had the side effect of feeling tired, but since you are resting and healing from surgery this is perfect timing for you. The side effects, according to my nurse practitoner, should go away no later than twelve weeks after starting. Every once in a while I feel a bit nauseas and take zofran or dramamine. I love being on this med!

[@thighsthelimit]

Congratulations on the weight loss! I'm also amazed at how it has cut down on the food noise. I feel like I can actually pause to think and make balanced decisions. I have the same belief in food, basically no food is "bad" and have everything in moderation. I mostly try to make sure I have a good chunk of protein(and exercise) to combat the muscle loss issue some people have had, and try to be proactive with veggies(still a work in progress) to keep my tummy feeling good. I've had the opposite effect in having more energy, though idk whether that's more due to Zepbound or the ADHD meds since I started them in the same week. So far, it's great, and I'm glad you are having a good experience too!

[@DebbieHerbert]

@@thighsthelimit Rooting for you on the journey

[@ekaterinapospelova4097]

Thank you SO much for being this honest and real. Mad respect for trying new things and documenting your journey!

[@thighsthelimit]

You are very welcome! And thank you! ♥️

[@moxiejju7014]

I really like this more serious, sit down and talk kinda vibe I'm getting from this video :)

[@thighsthelimit]

I'm so glad! I honestly wasn't sure how it was going to received because a lot of people prefer just challenge videos, but I'm glad some people are enjoying it!

[@jenniferkoelig9156]

​@@thighsthelimit All your videos will be well received.😊

[@bea.humble]

Glad that things are moving in the right directions for you. Wish you success in your battle with food and sugar addiction. I'm still struggling with mine, but seeing this update is giving me good vibes for the future 🙌

[@thighsthelimit]

Thank you! And don't worry, we both got this, one good decision at a time!

[@Corie3269]

I'd say just give Zepbound a try, I do not think it is "cheating", especially because of Lipedima (glad you got the diagnosis!). You seem to eat a lot of nutrient-dense foods, fighting a sugar addiction is hard and takes a lot of discipline regardless of weight. I'm not overweight but battled a sugar addiction as well - I needed to quit cold turkey (and it was very unpleasant) but for others it is better to allow yourself to have something sweet once a day but not more and be consequent. Your personal rule makes perfect sense to me. I think you can definitely be proud of yourself for not eating the dessert and not binging! And for all the other positive changes you actualized in your life! Btw I love the way you edit your videos, I really enjoy your humor. :)

[@thighsthelimit]

Props to you for being able to quit cold turkey, that sounds like a beast of a challenge! So far I'm enjoying my little rule because it has taken the guilt away and helped me to differentiate between impulse and an actual want. And thank you so much, I'm glad you're enjoying the videos! :)

[@Myliu903]

Yes, it's worth it to use Zepbound as a tool for weight loss! Please don't feel bad at all! I've been taking the non-name brand, the Tirzapatide version. I was actually going through the same as you (plantar fascia ripping, out for months in 2023 and at the same weight for years) so I understand the complete frustration. I started Tirzapatide in June this year, and down 32 pounds. The food noise is gone and all my cravings have substantially decreased. I just have lost that urge to eat a ton if I'm upset or stressed as I just don't crave the food. And I actually feel full like I can't eat another bite, and it's crazy! I still am around 1200 to 1400 calories, and the process was gradual. Started at 2.5 mg with 4 packs, and worked my way up every 4 weeks (2.5, 5.0, 7.5). Now I'm on the 10 mg. Not sure if this is the same for every dose, because I think it's different for some prescriptions? Also, only side effects I experienced was a bit of dizziness and headache the first couple of days of a new dose. But it was very minimal, and felt fine after that. Water helps a ton! I am planning on tapering off of Tirzapatide in December. I'm just sharing my own experience, and understand everyone experiences medication differently. But this has been a life-changing experience as I was so stuck after gaining 80 pounds. I can actually do things without running out of breath and participate in activities I could never do (like ziplining and horseback riding). You're a beautiful and charming person to watch here all the time on KZbin. Thanks for always posting and sharing your life, it's very refreshing on this platform. Sorry for the paragraphs, but hope this helps as an insight!

[@thighsthelimit]

Plantar facia issues are the friggin' worst! I sincerely hope yours is doing much better. And congratulations on the weight loss! I've only been on it for a few weeks but the lack of food noise and cravings is amazing, I feel like I can actually enjoy my life instead of just fixating on food. I think the dose increase sounds similar to what I've heard from most. I did have someone that recommended waiting until everything plateaus before upping the dosage if you are trying to go about things very slowly, so I'm debating on that. Currently I'm on the 2.5. I did check in with calorie counting for a few days and realized I tended to be at 2300 because I still was having unhealthy snacks even though the meals were healthier, so I'm currently working on that part because my goal is to stay between 1700 and 2000 calories to lose a pound a week. I'm glad your side effects have been minimal, mine have as well, and I agree for sure about the water. Initially I lost weight from 271 to 212 just with diet and exercise and then school and work and health issues had me off track and I got as high as 251. I want to get back down to 212 and then taper back off and do the rest without it, but it kinda depends on how long it takes me to securely get those good habits back in place. I'm so happy for you that you are getting to do all of these new experiences without running out of breath, I'm definitely excited to eventually get to that point! Thank you so much for the support! (and don't worry about the paragraphs, I too am prone to essays lol)

[@Steven-ze2zk]

I lost 60lbs at the start of this year. 60!!! Then I put 30lbs back on because I stopped my raw vegan diet and went back to processed food. Then I started losing weight again by going raw but it didn't last long. I have many thoughts on all of this but won't bore anyone with a long comment about it all. I'll just say it's a struggle and leave it at that. Keep it up though. You're doing great. I'll get back to it soon enough too.

[@thighsthelimit]

Don't worry, we'll both get there eventually. One good decision at a time. I feel ya on the scale frustration. I lost about 60 pounds and gained almost 40 of it back between stress and random illness/injuries. We got this. I think the key is just finding habits that are healthy but also sustainable long term. Best of luck to you!

[@Steven-ze2zk]

@@thighsthelimit I'm so conflicted about this. I really am. I used to think getting there slowly and being sustainable is key but no longer. I don't think it works because we're literally trying to be the most powerful versions of ourselves (unless we're not.) What are we trying to achieve here? Perfect health and wellness and a dream come true body? Such things require 100% dedication and discipline. You can't cheat! You can't slack! NO cheat meals! NO days off from training! We lose results so fast and the things we use to comfort ourselves enslave and destroy us. I could go on and on here but there's too much to say!! Thanks for replying and best of luck to you. I'll be watching and cheering you on!!!

[@aussierayz0018]

I think this is a wonderful option and tool. I’ve always been a large girl my whole life and at 42 I went thru my first and only pregnancy, thru IVF and it did such a number on my body. I gained so much weight and my blood pressure sky rocketed at the end. After nearly a year of struggle to lose and gain and lose the same 10lbs I’m now taking tirzepatide( zepbound) the compounded version since my insurance doesn’t cover it. Since it’s compounded I have the option of adding in niacinamide(B3) and man the energy it gives me is such a blessing. It’s been 3 weeks and I haven’t felt this hopeful and positive and energetic in a few years. It’s also cut my desire with my sugar addiction. Good luck to you ❤

[@thighsthelimit]

I feel you on that 10 pound back and forth struggle. I think every time I start being successful at it, I freak out and self sabotage because I'm scared I'm never going to get the weight I gained back off, and losing the same weight again is far less exciting. I'm trying this time around to focus more on healthy decisions rather than the scale. I hadn't thought about the B3 option but I'll definitely look into it! I'm so glad that you are getting good energy and feeling more hopeful and positive. Best of luck to you as well! ♥️

[@JAMtheKnitter]

I'm so proud of you! Working on the mental stuff is huge, that will help you long term so much. I'm on a GLP-1 agonist, it's helping with food noise which for me feels just as important as helping with physical hunger. I love seeing how positive you are and that you're doing this for your health, which I think is a longer-lasting motivator than just for looks (which of course, is a fine motivator too, I am motivated by both).

[@thighsthelimit]

thank you! Hands down, therapy is the best thing I've ever done for both my mental and physical health. I feel you one the food noise, it's hands down what has helped me most with the meds. The few pounds I've already shaved off definitely help some with the motivation for sure!

[@nerdincubator]

Keep sharing your Zepbound journey. The YT community is very supportive. We all know that we all are using it as a tool but we recognize that it is a very important missing piece.

[@thighsthelimit]

Thank you, I will! So far I'm very amazed and grateful to my subscribers/commenters on here. Everyone has been so kind, encouraging, and supportive, and I'm so grateful to y'all!

[@aussierayz0018]

A piece of advice I’ve heard mentioned all over and I’m am implementing is to not titrate up to the next dose if the current dose is working. To go up slowly. I think the body gets used to it over time and may be less effective. ❤

[@thighsthelimit]

thank you! Solid advice! I'm currently quite happy with the dose I'm on, and agree that it's a good idea to wait on that plateau before leveling up.

[@Joycesammons]

Thank you for so being so honest. Three weeks ago I quit eating sugar, white flour and pop. Low Carb Love has tons of recipes with desserts. You go girl!

[@thighsthelimit]

You're welcome! I try to be as straightforward as possible on this channel. Diet changes are hard, but it's worth it to find food changes that are sustainable to you. I've had a very enjoyable time trying some healthier desserts. I feel like a lot of the healthier/protein desserts are so completely horrendous it's laughable, but I have an amusing time trying, and every now and then I find a win so it's worth it. My favorite so far has been to make meringues shaped like a bowl and to throw some fruit in there.

[@Joycesammons]

@@thighsthelimit girl, I am so addicted to sugar. This has been a not fun two weeks going without sugar. I heard someone say you need to break up with food just like you would break up with a bad boyfriend. Lol low carb love has got tons of dessert recipes that actually taste pretty good and it doesn’t have any sugar in it, I’ll be praying for you on your journey

[@thighsthelimit]

@@Joycesammons that analogy is spot on! Worst boyfriend ever lol. I'll check out low carb love, thanks for the reference, I hadn't heard of that before. And thank you for the prayers, I'll do the same. ♥

[@AkaiTsume]

I totally understand the frustration and the self-imposed double standard, I've been there myself! I think you've been very brave this entire time, and I think in your particular situation especially, adding the weight loss medication to give you a head start isn't a bad idea at all. I agree that you would've gotten there eventually, but for the sake of your overall health and recovery, I think the head start is a good idea!! I know you'll figure out what you need to do to keep it off afterwards, and you've already formed some GREAT habits that will help with that! You've got this!!!

[@thighsthelimit]

Thank you so much for the support! ♥️

[@user-cathysbd1]

Love your videos. You are so down to earth and easy to listen too. ❤

[@thighsthelimit]

Thank you! I'm glad you're enjoying them!

[@ec_0719]

I am also a sugar addict. My dietician told me to keep the fun things in the house (oreos, etc) and have one every day. This didn't work for me, I just ate the whole package in a few days. I have no control. I don't know what the answer for me is, but I support you in your sugar-reducing journey!! Love your videos, keep it up sweetie xx

[@thighsthelimit]

I have also tried the whole "have a couple here and there" thing and it didn't work for me either. The sugar addict part of me will just fixate on the rest of the Oreos until I cave. What's helped so far is figuring out 2 things: 1, my triggers are cookies and any and all pastry items, so I need to be aware that I'm going to struggle if they are in the house. However, ice cream(not the tubs but the individual packages) are something I can manage, so I usually have frozen yogurt bars, popsicles, and low cal frozen treats around. It satisfies my sweet tooth but I don't have to stress about going wild. The second thing is, if I just have to have cookies or a pastry, I either bake it and give most of it away or buy the individually wrapped stuff, like a 3 pack of Oreos or a single cake slice. They are more expensive, but it helps me to not constantly have to struggle by fixating on it. I hope you find something that works for you! It definitely is a beast of a journey for sure. And I'm glad you are enjoying the videos!

[@tiafenn]

This is definitely not cheating and it is still losing weight "naturally" . Zepbound is not showing up at the gym or choosing which foods you put in your body. I have been consistently exercising 3-6x a week and tracking my food for YEARS, and the lowest I ever got to was 218 lbs. Like you, when my doctor suggested weight loss drugs, I said "absolutely not." I had never heard of GLP-1 or GIP until she gave me that handout 6 months ago (clearly I live under a rock). So I did my research and since starting I am over 30lbs down doing exactly what I was doing before the shot. I have upped my protein intake and reducing calories slightly. I was already a pretty "healthy" eater but I did and still do occasionally enjoy delicious and high caloric/low density food. Moderation is the key and I think of Zepbound as my mental moderator. That rule you just implemented to control your sugar will be obsolete as soon as the meds start to level up in your body. I watch you because you are hilarious and I am excited to see where Zepbound takes you. Much success ahead, you got this 💪🏾. Also, don't be scared...I have had ZERO side effects besides mild constipation the first week or two, increased fiber immediately corrected that.

[@thighsthelimit]

Thank you! Minus the mental block I'm still working on, I completely agree. You still have to hydrate, make healthy choices, and be more active. It's good that you have been focusing on the protein intake, as that combined with exercise helps to combat the muscle loss that some people have complained with with those drugs. Congrats on your weight loss! For me, it's so far helped a lot with the food noise and cravings, so I can actually focus on putting the healthy habits in place. It's kind of amazing to not obsess over sugar 24/7. I feel you on the "absolutely not" part. It took me 10 months and a surgery to decide it might help. but I'm glad I decided to do it. I love the note about the mental moderator, that's spot on for me as well. I'm glad you find the videos amusing :D My first week was weird with gallbladder pain so my doctor had me skip a week to get an ultrasound but thankfully nothing was wrong and I'm back on it. So far, as long as I'm proactive with veggies and protein, I'm mostly digestively okay, thank goodness. Thank you for your support!

[@kimf1993]

Haha, oh my gosh. When you said ‘I wanna learn stop motion’ and ‘I’m a sugar addict’ I was like- do you have ADHD? Me too. You can still do it! Be patient and good luck 🤞 And congrats on getting medicated. It’s such a game changer, right?

[@thighsthelimit]

So much ADHD 😅 those meds are magic though. I'm still amazed at how much better I feel and how much more I get done.

[@JM-cm5im]

Thank you very much for sharing, I can relate to a lot of your experiences! I am very happy to hear that you will give the medication a try and I hope that it will work out the way you want it to! Honestly, just as you said it yourself, whatever helps people to accomplish this massive and so important change is great in my opinion :) And if some people disagree, fine, don't worry about them, they don't have to take it themselves and what you do is non of their business :)

[@thighsthelimit]

You're welcome! I'm glad you find them relatable. And thank you for the support!

[@kimf1993]

Girl you can do it! I was in the same boat with the cycle. Unfortunately I had to cut out some of my ‘trigger foods’ but it’s worked so well!

[@thighsthelimit]

thank you so much for the support! ♥️

[@jenniferkoelig9156]

My friend has had great luck with the weight loss drug. She has very little concept of diet/exercise and just takes the shot. So I think you'll KILL it!! 🎉❤

[@thighsthelimit]

Thank you! I always get excited when I see your name pop up in my comments. I'm like, yay, she's one of my OG's! :D Glad you've stuck around! I definitely want to use this opportunity to focus more on the healthy decisions because it's not something I want to be on long term. Bit by bit though!

[@jenniferkoelig9156]

​@@thighsthelimit That's so nice, thank you! You have the best mindset and if this drug helps, great. You're not expecting it to do it all for you. Thank you for all your videos. Truly.

[@mandysworld6139]

Gurllll I know what you mean .. I am now going through the process of weight loss surgery, I've been trying to lose weight for YEARS and doing everything I can do to get there .. but even when I would lose weight... It come right back and sometimes added more weight... Talked to PCP who's helped as much they could. Finally talked to insurance see what can be done there . Did weight watchers ... Finally talk to Dr and insurance said they pay for surgery and that's it.. after an other crying moment with said Dr ( she is such a sweet thing! ) feeling like I'm giving up on myself,or if I really did everything.. she made sure I knew I did everything in my power to lose it and that some people just need more tools in their pockets to get where they're going. I never judge anyone for using a tool for weight loss ( as long as it's healthy and not hurting anyone) but it was different to myself, because I know i am my worst critic

[@thighsthelimit]

I am so glad that you have a supportive doctor, they really do make a huge difference. And props to you for putting in the time and effort to find a solution that could work for you. Weight loss surgery is a giant decision and takes a ton of effort. I never did understand the people that would crap all over it. It takes so much work, but is such an amazing tool. I'm so glad it's available to the people that can benefit from it.

[@mandysworld6139]

@thighsthelimit I'm grateful as well!! And it seems your Dr pretty great to and helping you !! And I never understood why people act the way they do .. I feel if someone comes up to me and say " you're taking the easy way out" imma call them ignorant, and to learn to do research before commenting on something they know nothing about. As well as burn that bridge because I ain't got no time for that negativity. I was/am upfront of my choice and straight up told people they don't like it then delete me and don't talk to me, if I get a neg comment I'll be don't with them without second thoughts. I think that's why some people don't say much to me now. But imma send loves and positive videos your way!! All we want is to be healthy physically and mentally!!

[@joycestone7826]

I go back and watch Friends when I feel the need to decompress......I saw it on your screen!

[@thighsthelimit]

Yes! It's such a feel good show!

[@rebven2594]

Weight loss medication is not cheating, as long as the people who take it also take their overall health seriously (eating nutritious food, walking or exercising etc.), which you clearly do!

[@mockingbirdnightingale7169]

Although I haven't tried medications, I did have VSG (weight loss surgery) 4 years ago and I went through a lot of the same thoughts. Here's what I have to say about the cheating thing: Finish the sentence. You said, it feels like it's cheating. Cheating what? Finish the sentence. Which game are you playing, and why would appropriate medical treatment be cheating? It took me a long time to work through these feelings but I am so incredibly grateful that I had the surgery. Life without the excess weight is just incomparable in every way. I know there are pros and cons to every type of treatment and I'm not saying you should do this or that, but I'd just urge you to complete the thought and really figure out what it is that you think you'd be cheating at.

[@thighsthelimit]

That verbage was incredibly helpful, thank you! I was like, "I feel like I'm cheating at weight loss." And then it clicked. Weight loss isn't a game, it's an attempt to be healthier, and I'm making lifestyle changes to do so. Same for the part about medical treatment. I believe obesity is classified as a disease, so Zepbound is literally just medical treatment. Plus, it's not a magic shot. If I don't change my behaviors, I still own't lose weight. It just lets my appetite chill down a bit and my food noise is finally silent so I can actually focus long enough to get those healthy habits in place. Seriously, thank you for commenting. It helped so much. ♥️ I'm so glad your surgery worked well for you. I can't wait to see how much my life will change as I get healthier!

[@mockingbirdnightingale7169]

@@thighsthelimit your reply literally made my day. YES!!! You deserve to be healthy.

[@mushlittlehuskies9267]

I think you're so wise to at least try Zepbound. I'm 30 years older than you and have fought this fight my entire adult life. My obesity led to me needing joint replacements, among other medical conditions made so much worse by the extra 90 lbs I've carried for 40 years. My degree is in nutrition so for me it wasn't a lack of knowledge, it was habit combined with (I'm convinced) a biochemical drive. At night I'd eat high carb/high sugar foods and then at some point it would be like a switch had been flipped---and all the desire to eat would stop. I was active, exercised daily etc., but up until now it's been a struggle that I couldn't overcome. So, after months of researching it, I decided that it was time to use the tool (Zepbound) that would help me to relearn eating. It hasn't even been 2 weeks, and the medicine is helping to dull the desire to eat foods that aren't great for my body. I'm already learning to enjoy healthier foods; the pull toward less nutritious food is still there, but much quieter. If I'd had access to Zepbound at your age, I would've been spared decades of feeling like a failure. More importantly, I would've avoided the damage to my body caused by carrying an extra 90 lbs for 40 years. So---I think you're taking a major step that will help you to change your habits and your cravings. You've clearly given it a lot of thought, you're working closely with your doctor, and I think what you're doing is a positive. And, thanks for your honesty!

[@thighsthelimit]

Thank you! That's one of the things that finally made me decide to try it: I've had a lot of extra weight on my body for the last 10+ years, and I'm definitely starting to notice the strain it has but on my feet and joints in particular. I'm in a similar boat, I got my degree in physical therapy so I know enough to know what I need to do, it's the habits and sticking with them that is the hard part. I don't know why, but anything sugary always just tastes better after dark. The Zepbound has helped a lot with the cravings thankfully. I'm so glad you're having good results too! It's shocking how much less exhausted I am when I'm not fixated on food 24/7. Thank you for your support! Hopefully we both will be feeling lighter and healthier in the months to come.

[@Soaring_Seajay]

Nope not cheating at all! You’ve worked so hard and I think this will help you. I Be careful though, since you’re also taking the ADHD meds (but I’m sure your Dr is aware and guiding you 😃). Obviously start on the lowest dose and work up (again, I’m sure your Dr is advising you this). I’m excited for you! ❤

[@thighsthelimit]

So there a site out there that is super helpful the lists medicine side effects and you can look up potential interactions with other meds you are taking. it drugs and then the usual dot and com(not sure how yt comments are with links lol). It's super helpful. I did double check my meds together and thankfully the only potential concern is a faster heart rate, which thankfully I have not had any issues with. Thank you for bringing it up though, because it's always good to be cautious and informed. ♥️

[@Soaring_Seajay]

@@thighsthelimit oh good!! Very glad to hear that 💜

[@GoingGreenMom]

Soooo, what would the difference be between the lymphadema stuff and the veinous insufficiency issues from HSD/EDS be? You kinda have me scared cause your legs dont really look any different from mine. Lol. Also, have you considered an alternative like inositol or berberine or do you not have issues with insulin resistance or is that not how the GLP1s work? Sorry, I havent kept up on that stuff because I react badly to pharmaceuticals (think boils and flu-like symptoms after about a week). I know Im watching older videos so hopefully it is working well for you.

[@thighsthelimit]

this is going to be long so bear with me because I want to explain this as best I can. So, small caveat that I know some from being a PT, but I'm still learning more. That being said in terms of presentation with what I understand: Lymphedema is when your lymphatic system gets blocked in some capacity and the lymph fluid struggles to drain. It tends to present in one leg (can happen in arms too, a lot of times that is due to the removal of lymph nodes surgically from cancer). Lipedema presents bilaterally (both legs), and has edema(swelling) but for different reasons. You get an irregular distribution of fat (average seems to be the legs/thighs but my understanding is it can affect butt/lower torso in some). The swelling is not from your lymphatic system but more of an inflammatory response. Lymphedema can affect the feet, whereas lipedema does not. I believe there are 4 stages to lipedema. The 4th stage is known as lipo lymphedema. That is the crossover. Basically the pressure from the edema and fat distribution got severe enough to damage/block those surface level lymphatic vessels. Because both lymphedema and lipedema have components of swelling though for different reasons, compression wraps, pumps, and lymphatic massage actually help for both lipedema and lymphedema. Venous insufficiency is where the veins that transport blood back to your heart are collectively struggling and cause blood to pool in your legs. So there's swelling from that too, but it tends to look different. More varicose veins(don't panic if you have a rogue visibly vein, some of us like myself just have very visible veins), dry flaky skin that tends to be thicker, and you can get hemosiderin staining that look like kinda rust colored patches. In terms of how I present, my legs 100% present like lipedema legs. Since it tends to be a diagnosis of exclusion(a bunch of other stuff gets ruled out first), my doctor sent me to do an ultrasound to make sure that I didn't have vein issues as well. I don't have chronic venous insufficiency, just a rogue vein that decided to be sassy and needs to be addressed. No need to panic lol. With EDS/hEDS, to my knowledge venous insufficiency does not tend to be comorbid (as in not commonly diagnosed with it). The diagnoses that are commonly potentially seen with EDS are POTS, lipedema, & mast cell disease. With mast cell issues, you tend to have an aggressive inflammatory response based on the body's difficulty in breaking down histamine. I have a ton more to learn on that particular diagnosis, but the histamine sensitivity can come in varying degrees and also explains why our bodies can have the inflammatory reaction to the disease fat of lipedema with the swelling component. This is also why a low histamine diet is supposed to help with lipedema and EDS. In terms of the weight loss drugs, Mounjaro is the version of the drug approved by the FDA in 2022 for treatment of type 2 diabetes. I'm on Zepbound which is approved for weight loss management. For someone without diabetes the short version is it helps you to feel full longer and to have less food cravings, which has been a godsend to me, because I can finally focus on creating sustainable habits instead of obsessing over what I want to eat 24/7. That doctor has basically made EDS study her life's work and is trying to publish more research on it soon, and I can't wait to read it! That pharmaceutical reaction has got to be sucky, flu symptoms are the worst :( All of that is my current knowledge, though I'm trying to learn more. Hope it helps, in spite of being an essay lol.

[@GoingGreenMom]

@thighsthelimit Definitely don't mind the essay! Very glad you found a knowledgeable doctor. My diagnosing rhuemi retired at the end of 2019, just before my daughter started having more issues and it took us til this summer to find someone that knew anything in this state. She is scheduled in with her..... next June. The detailed differentiation on lymphedema and lipedema is definitely helpful. Going to keep my fingers crossed on not having it as I do have mast cell symptoms and developed histamine intolerance in 2019. Thankfully was able to add in some herbs to help with MC stabilization and going with a lower lectin diet to sure up gut lining and possible leaky gut issues (which lead to degranulation and higher histamine levels) helped with that enough I don't really deal with Histamine issues much at all anymore. I do try to be proactive with things like freezing leftovers too though. Still working on the pcos symptoms and insulin resistance side of that, but getting mast cells under control was enough to knock histamine symptoms down. Oh, and in terms of reactions, I would probably say the boils are worse, that and the dental numbing stuff comes out in mouth blisters for a few weeks after an appointment. That probably tops both of them. Thank you for explaining what you know about everything. I've been diagnosed with EDS for 25 years and information wasn't really given back then so I'm just trying to learn as things crop up these days. Always the first place I look anymore though cause it all seems to go back to that. Lol.

[@thighsthelimit]

@@GoingGreenMom ugh I feel ya on the struggles getting the doctor. It took me 2 years of doctor's appointments to even find a doctor who knew of an EDS and then another 10 months on the waiting list. I'm glad you were able to find some things that worked for you. It's amazing that there are so many treatment options out there, the hard part sometimes is just finding them. Those boils sound awful! Ouch! Honestly, you've probably got me long since beat on the EDS knowledge since it's been 25 years. I'll happily welcome all resources, I didn't know what it was until PT school so I'm still playing catch up lol.

[@GoingGreenMom]

@@thighsthelimit There are a few resources I can offer, several of the EDS organizations have channels on here and post conference lectures. Usually a few years behind, and the one has basically decided to only focus on the DNA variants of EDS instead of anything to do with hEDS or HSD.... the reasoning they gave is they wanted everyone to feel represented in the research..... not sure I understand that since hEDS/HSD to my understanding several times outweigh the other types combined in numbers, but it is what it is I guess. But their old lectures give tidbits of insight here and there that have been helpful. Also, in the last year or two Kevin and Kathleen Muldowney have put out a book called Living Life to the Fullest with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, they are both PTs and I can't really say how good the book itself is because I haven't pulled the trigger on buying it yet, but a friend has and last I asked about it she was just starting to work through it with her PT. I'm sure I have little tricks or things that I've figured out over the years that I don't even realize I do differently to most people. Lol, feel free to ask if you have any particular things you are looking for help on, I will do my best to see how I've adjusted it. Lol.

[@thighsthelimit]

@@GoingGreenMom Thank you so much, I added the book to my reading list! I remember someone telling me there were 13 different types of EDS and it blew my mind. I want to learn everything I can.