Endometriosis Treatment: Managing the Pain Through Various Options
Endometriosis Treatment: Managing the Pain Through Various Options
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Understanding Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This most commonly affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and tissues lining the pelvic cavity. When this tissue builds up each month it cannot leave the body like it does during a normal menstrual period. This causes pain, inflammation and formation of lesions. Symptoms of endometriosis include painful periods, pelvic pain, pain with bowel movements or urination, pain during or after sex, painful periods, heavy bleeding and infertility. The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown. Risk factors include family history, early onset of menstruation and shorter than average menstrual cycles.
Pain Management Options
Mild cases of Endometriosis Treatment can be initially treated with over-the-counter medications for pain relief during menstrual periods. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) as well as acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help with the pain. For moderate to severe pain, birth control pills are commonly prescribed. By thinning the uterine lining and preventing ovulation, pills can reduce menstrual bleeding and pain. Short-term use of prescription pain relievers may also be used. Options include narcotic opioids such as codeine, hydrocodone or oxycodone.
Hormonal Endometriosis Treatment
Long-term hormonal treatments aim to decrease estrogen levels and slow the progression of endometriosis lesions. These can help reduce pain symptoms but do not cure the disease. Common drugs prescribed include oral contraceptives in a continuous regimen to skip periods, progesterone-only injections to stop ovulation, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists to induce temporary menopause. Side effects may include mood changes, hot flashes and loss of libido. Benefits usually stop when treatment ends and symptoms often return.
Surgery
If less invasive endometriosis treatment do not help or fertility issues arise, surgical procedures may be recommended. Laparoscopy allows the gynecologist to examine the pelvic cavity and remove or destroy endometrial growths. Hormonal treatments are often prescribed afterwards to slow regrowth. Hysterectomy or removal of the ovaries may be suggested for severe, prolonged cases but will induce infertility and menopause. Success rates for pain relief are about 50-75%. For advanced endometriosis adhesion, a laparotomy with open abdominal surgery may be needed.
Alternative Therapies
Along with medical endometriosis treatment, lifestyle changes and complementary therapies can help manage endometriosis symptoms. A diet high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may offer anti-inflammatory support. Stress reduction through yoga, meditation, exercise and time with social support networks can provide relief. Acupuncture, chiropractic and massage therapy also show potential. While not cures, combining various pain management approaches may more effectively treat this chronic condition. Ongoing care and monitoring of symptoms is key to controlling endometriosis over the long term.
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