If you suffer from endometriosis you know that a flare-up can be excruciating to experience. The onset of an endo flare is different for everyone as several things can trigger it. Identifying your triggers can help reduce flares and leave endometriosis pain in 2021.
Endometriosis Pain and Other Symptoms
Endometriosis affects approximately 11% of American women of child-bearing age. It is more common between the ages of 30-40. Endometrial tissue is what lines the wall of the uterus. It grows and swells, then sheds and is eliminated from the body as a part of the monthly menstrual cycle. Endometriosis develops when this same type of tissue grows outside the uterus on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, and the tissues holding the uterus in place.
Pain is the most common symptom, but endometriosis can also cause bleeding between menstrual cycles, infertility, and digestive issues. Endo-related pain varies in areas affected and severity, including:
- Excruciating menstrual cramps that may get worse over time
- Chronic pain in the lower back and pelvis
- Pain during or after sex
- Intestinal pain
- Painful bowel movements or when urinating during menstrual periods
Triggers, Flares, and Pain
For many, the pain they experience results from the endometriosis growths becoming inflamed or beginning to bleed. The bleeding and swelling of these growths occur in an area where they cannot leave the body easily and can be extremely painful. Endo flare-ups may occur at any time or when exposed to certain factors that amplify the inflammation and, in turn, the pain and other symptoms.
A healthy diet, decreasing stress, and developing good sleep habits may help you feel better, but in order to get your endometriosis under control, you will need to meet with a Gynecologist. There are exciting new treatments available, so even if you have already tried a medication, it’s time to revisit your options.
Leaving Endometriosis Pain in 2021
It can be challenging to explain the intricacies of endo pain during a short visit with a physician. The typical pain rating scale physicians use isn’t enough for a provider to clearly understand their experience. Chronic pain research has found that evaluating pain intensity, severity, location, impact on daily life, and duration is necessary to gain good insight. Recording these factors in a period diary or phone app can help identify potential triggers and give you and your provider information to manage your condition better.
Doing all the right things doesn’t always mean a pain-free life with endometriosis. However, taking steps to reduce the frequency of endo flares ultimately lessens its impact on our lives. If you’re struggling to manage endometriosis pain, potential new options are being investigated in clinical research studies. Contact Seattle Clinical Research Center today to explore our enrolling studies for endometriosis. Call us at (206) 522-3330 or visit our website.
Sources:
https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/endometriosis
https://endo-metrix.com/endometrix-blog/endometriosis-pain-and-flareups
