Living with Endometriosis: What You Should Know

Endometriosis is a condition in which there is an unusual growth of tissue that is similar to uterine-lining tissue – called endometrial tissue – suddenly appearing somewhere in the body other than the uterus. It usually occurs elsewhere in the pelvic area, but it can occur anywhere in the body. It affects about one in 10 women of child-bearing age.

Because endometrial tissue is shed naturally as your monthly period, endometriosis also results in a buildup of blood where the misplaced tissue exists in your body. The blood usually has no escape out of the body, and this can cause a problem.

There is no cure for endometriosis, but there are treatment options and lifestyle changes to relieve the symptoms so that the condition does not interfere with your life. Let’s talk about how you can take charge of your endometriosis, and where you can go in DeKalb County for outstanding gynecology care and OB/GYN treatment.

How Can I Control My Endometriosis?

Here are a few tips that can help you tamp down the effects of endometriosis:

Exercise Regularly

Exercise is considered one of the best natural techniques to mitigate the physical pain that results from endometriosis. When you exercise, your body increases the circulation of blood and releases chemicals in the brain that can reduce pain sensations.

Stay Rested

Women who have endometriosis often experience poor sleep quality due to the pain and discomfort it can cause, especially during your monthly period. A recent study of 275 women with endometriosis found an increase in depressive symptoms and bladder pain.

To help you sleep at night, there are several simple methods you can incorporate into your lifestyle:

• Keep your bedroom dark and quiet
• Set specific and consistent times to go to bed and wake up
• Reduce the use of electronics near bedtime
• Limit naps during the day
• Lower the consumption of caffeine and alcohol

Implement Pain-Management Techniques

The pain of endometriosis triggers stress in your body, and the stress can make your symptoms worse – in a never-ending cycle of pain and stress. The pain is reported to be similar or identical to that of menstrual cramps.

Your OB/GYN can provide treatment options for endometriosis, outlining the risks and benefits of each. The doctor will also take into account your age, your symptoms, the location of your endometriosis, and whether you want to get pregnant in the future.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce endometriosis-related pain and cramps. This works best in combination with heat therapy.

Heat Therapy

Taking a warm (not hot) shower or bath, or applying a heating pad onto the painful area, can alleviate the pain of endometriosis.

Hormone Therapy

If you do not wish to become pregnant in the future, hormone therapy can help slow down the growth of endometrial tissue, prevent new growth, and ease endometriosis-related pain.

Surgery

If the pain continues despite conservative measures, your OB/GYN may recommend targeted surgery to remove the extraneous endometrial-like tissue. This treatment has become more precise and more effective in recent years.

Endometriosis Treatment in Decatur, GA

If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms related to your menstrual cycle, such as pelvic pain or abnormal vaginal bleeding, see a caring and experienced gynecologist at Dekalb Women’s Specialists. To schedule a consultation, call us today at (404) 508-2000 or fill out our appointment booking form online now. We look forward to being your healthcare partner!