Endometriosis affects one in every ten women in the United States. It happens when endometrium-like tissue develops outside the uterus in the ovaries, abdomen, and bowel. These endometriosis lesions swell and bleed, resulting in discomfort and other symptoms. Endometriosis Jackson Heights is classified into three types based on where it occurs:
- A superficial peritoneal lesion: This is the most prevalent type of endometriosis. You will have lesions on your peritoneum, a thin layer that lines your pelvic cavity.
- Endometrioma (ovarian lesion): These black, fluid-filled cysts, often known as chocolate cysts, originate deep within your ovaries. Also, they do not respond well to therapy and can harm healthy tissue.
- Deeply infiltrating endometriosis: This type develops beneath your peritoneum and can affect organs around your uterus, such as your intestines or bladder.
How to diagnose endometriosis
Your clinician can identify endometriosis based on your symptoms. They can conduct tests such as:
- Pelvic examination: Your specialist can feel cysts or scars behind your uterus.
- Detailed history: Your clinician will note your indicators and personal or family history of endometriosis. A general health assessment can also be done to determine if there are any other symptoms of a long-term disorder.
- Imaging tests: An ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRI can provide detailed pictures of your organs.
- Laparoscopy: The doctor makes a small incision in the abdomen and inserts a thin tube with a camera on the end. They can observe where and how big the lesions are. This is typically the only method to be certain that you have endometriosis.
- Biopsy: Your doctor takes a tissue sample, usually during a laparoscopy, and a specialist examines it under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
What happens if endometriosis is left untreated?
Endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus can form cysts, adhesions, and scar tissue over time. This can result in long-term (chronic) pain, particularly during menstruation. Many women who have endometriosis can have difficulty getting pregnant. This issue can occasionally be addressed by treatment. Menopause symptoms can improve as you age and go through menopause. This is due to the hormonal changes that occur in your body throughout menopause.
How to prevent endometriosis
Endometriosis is an idiopathic disease, which means there is no known cause. There are no particular methods for preventing endometriosis. But, being aware of the signs and if you are at an increased risk can help you determine whether to consult a doctor. Among the things that can lower your risk of endometriosis are:
- Becoming pregnant.
- Breastfeeding.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
Endometriosis can cause long-term (chronic) discomfort, heavy periods, and difficulty becoming pregnant. Working with your healthcare practitioner can help you manage these symptoms. See your provider if you detect any endometriosis symptoms or are experiencing unusual or painful periods.
There are therapy options available to assist you in enhancing your everyday life and managing your endometriosis over time. Call Raveco Medical to schedule your consultation today to determine which endometriosis therapies suit you.
