Endometriosis can be a painful and debilitating condition that affects around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age

Endometriosis, a condition affecting as many as 1 in 10 women aged between 15-45, remains largely misunderstood and underdiagnosed.

With Endometriosis Awareness Month starting on March 1, it’s crucial to highlight the often-overlooked symptoms that can lead to years of unnecessary suffering.

The symptoms frequently overlap with other conditions, leading to misdiagnosis or an expectation to simply live with the condition for 50% of women affected.

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Hormone health expert Mike Kocsis from Balance My Hormones exclusively revealed the key signs every woman should be aware of, explaining how increased awareness can lead to earlier diagnosis and improved quality of life.

To simplify, he first explained what endometriosis entails: “Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. Unlike the tissue inside the uterus, which sheds during menstruation, the tissue outside the uterus has nowhere to go, leading to inflammation, pain, and, in some cases, scarring.”

Alarmingly, he also noted that the condition can affect various organs, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and bowel, stating: “Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe chronic pain and infertility.”

As any woman can attest, ‘time of the month’ pains are expected, with symptoms varying widely.

Still, Mike underlines the importance of vigilance towards those hidden symptoms frequently dismissed as other conditions like asthma, IBS, or just plain tiredness, reports the Mirror.

“While most people associate endometriosis with painful periods, it can cause a variety of other symptoms that are often overlooked or confused with other conditions,” Mike pointed out.

Chronic Fatigue

Women who suffer from endometriosis might find themselves battling extreme fatigue not solely because of pain but also due to the body combating persistent inflammation. Even after adequate rest, they may feel exhausted, an effect often mistakenly chalked up to stress or bad sleep.

Breathing Problems and Chest Pain

Some women affected by endometriosis deal with breathing difficulties or chest aches. This happens when endometrial tissue takes root in places it shouldn’t, such as the diaphragm or lungs, which could lead to rare issues like catamenial pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or respiratory troubles coinciding with their period.

Such symptoms can be easily misinterpreted as asthma or similar respiratory ailments.

Chronic Leg Pain or Sciatica

Endometriosis might reach the pelvic nerves, causing pain that spreads down the legs or into the lower back, closely mimicking sciatica. Sufferers may encounter numbness, prickling, or discomfort in their legs, particularly during their menstrual cycle.

Digestive Issues

Many women with endometriosis experience symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, or nausea. These symptoms often resemble those of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can lead to misdiagnosis and delay the appropriate treatment for endometriosis.

Persistent Lower Back and Pelvic Pain

Unexplained lower back or pelvic pain, particularly during menstruation or sexual intercourse, could be a sign of endometriosis.

Pain that lasts for several days or recurs regularly may suggest a more serious underlying issue.

Pain During or After Sex

Endometriosis frequently results in pain during or after sex due to inflammation of the pelvic lining.

This discomfort can cause problems with intimacy and emotional distress, adding another layer to the already difficult experience.

Urinary and Bowel Distress

Women may suffer from frequent urination, painful urination, or discomfort during bowel movements.

These symptoms are often misdiagnosed as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or gastrointestinal issues, which can delay the diagnosis of endometriosis.

Infertility

Endometriosis is one of the main causes of infertility. It can lead to scarring and adhesions in the reproductive organs, making conception more challenging.

Approximately 30-50% of women with endometriosis have fertility issues.

Mike also highlighted that it’s not just the physical aspects that can be taxing – the condition can also have a significant emotional impact on women.

“Many women experience feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression due to the difficulty of being diagnosed and the constant pain they endure. Being told that their pain is ‘normal’ or just ‘bad periods’ can be incredibly frustrating, leading to feelings of invalidation and discouragement.”

The complex emotional impact is worsened by uncertainty around issues such as fertility, with Mika noting this can “strain relationships and contribute to a sense of social withdrawal.”

Furthermore, he pointed out that insufficient empathy from healthcare professionals, particularly GPs who lack familiarity with endometriosis, often leaves women feeling neglected, exacerbating the condition’s emotional toll.

Nevertheless, despite the absence of a cure, there are strategies to manage the condition more effectively.

Securing an early diagnosis and adopting a comprehensive treatment plan are vital for enhancing the prospects of those affected by endometriosis.

Should you notice any insidious signs of endometriosis, it is crucial to consult a medical professional knowledgeable about the ailment. Do not hesitate to stand up for your health—insist on investigations like an ultrasound or laparoscopy to confirm your condition.

Alleviating pain may involve over-the-counter analgesics, prescribed medications, or hormone treatments. In cases where the disease is advanced, surgical intervention might be necessary to excise surplus endometrial tissue.

Linking up with other women who are dealing with endometriosis can offer a significant boost to emotional wellbeing.

Whether online or face-to-face, support groups provide a platform to exchange experiences and coping mechanisms, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness.

A lot of women find solace in diet and exercise. Following an anti-inflammatory diet could potentially lessen pain and inflammation, while regular physical activity can enhance energy levels and diminish stress.

Considering the emotional burden that endometriosis can impose, it’s crucial to seek therapy or counselling. Mental health experts can assist in managing anxiety, depression, and stress, enabling women to better handle the challenges posed by the condition.