To understand what is endometriosis, it’s important to know its symptoms and causes and learn about treatment options and possible side effects. This article explains how you can find out more. This condition affects women in more than half the world. It can be very painful and disrupt the lives of affected women. Thankfully, there are several effective treatments.
Symptoms
Endometriosis symptoms include abdominal and pelvic pain. Symptoms can be mild, moderate, or severe and vary from patient to patient. Some women have no symptoms, while others experience intense pelvic pain. While pain levels vary between patients, early-stage patients generally experience more pain than later-stage ones. In addition, gastrointestinal distress can be a sign of endometriosis. Patients may experience gas, bloating, and constipation. Pain may also worsen during menstruation.
Symptoms of endometriosis may begin at puberty or may appear later in adulthood. The disease can also be cyclical, presenting at the same time every menstrual cycle. Although it often starts in the pelvic region, it can also progress to the ovaries, leading to infertility. It can also be found in non-gynaecological areas such as the bowel and bladder.
The best way to diagnose endometriosis is to consult a physician. Your doctor will note your symptoms and your family and personal history. In addition, your physician will likely perform a general health assessment to look for other conditions that could be long-term causes of endometriosis. A doctor may perform a pelvic exam using a speculum and light during your appointment. Some physicians use imaging tests such as transvaginal and abdominal ultrasounds to confirm the diagnosis.
Causes
Endometriosis is a chronic condition that can affect every organ of the body. Most women suffering from this disease experience pain throughout their pelvic area, ranging from severe abdominal cramps to pain in the legs or rectal area. It may be continuous, or it may happen only occasionally.
In some cases, endometrial tissue can appear outside the uterus, which can affect fertility and lead to pain. However, other cases can present with no symptoms at all. When diagnosed, doctors will perform a laparoscopy to check for endometrial tissue. If the tissue is located outside the uterus, surgery may be necessary to remove it. In more severe cases, endometriosis can lead to the removal of the uterus or ovaries.
The causes of endometriosis are not yet fully understood. Although it is believed that certain genetic factors play a role in the development of endometriosis, science has yet to find a single cause. However, there are several theories that are supported by extensive research. These theories range from Sampson’s theory of retrograde menstruation to more recent theories involving stem cells. Ultimately, a combination of these theories may be responsible for the symptoms of endometriosis.
Treatment options
Treatment options for endometriosis range widely. Birth control pills, for example, can help shorten periods, lighten pain, and reduce symptoms. In severe cases, however, suppressing the production of estrogen is essential. Other treatments include hormonal contraception and complimentary yoga and tai chi approaches.
The most common symptom is chronic pelvic pain. Other symptoms include inflammation and fimbrial dysfunction. In rare cases, endometriosis can mimic the symptoms of other diseases, such as vascular, neurological, and musculoskeletal disorders. The first option for treatment is to consult with a medical professional. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication if you’re experiencing pain or other symptoms. Alternatively, ultrasound may be used to detect endometriomas.
Hormonal treatments for endometriosis can be quite effective. Hormone replacement therapy, either in the form of injections or pills, can reduce pain and slow the growth of endometrial lesions. However, these treatments may not be right for everyone. Surgical treatments may be necessary in rare cases.
Side-effects
Endometriosis is a condition where the lining of the female pelvis is affected. The pelvis is a small space connected to the abdominal cavity and contains the bladder, rectum and other parts of the female reproductive organs. This area is lined with a glistening membrane-like material called the pelvic peritoneum. This lining allows the bowel to move freely and protects the abdominal cavity from infection.
Surgery is one option for patients with endometriosis. However, this option is not for everyone. Discuss the risks and side effects of surgery with your MD. For example, surgical procedures may not be a good option for women wanting children.
Endometriosis can cause severe pain, spotting and heavy bleeding. It can also cause cramping in the bowel, migraines and fatigue. It can also affect a woman’s mental health. It can lead to depression and infertility.
