Endometriosis Treatment, Prevention, Cure, and Symptoms

Endometriosis is a condition in which small piece of tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grow in other area of the body (and inside the uterus). Similar to the uterine lining, this tissue builds up and sheds in reaction to monthly hormonal cycles. The blood discarded from these implants falls onto surrounding organs, causing bump and inflammation. This continual irritation leads to the growth of scar tissue and adhesions.

This disease is most commonly strikes between the ages of 24 and 40. Endometriosis was once called the “career woman’s sickness” because it was considered to be a product of delayed childbearing. Nevertheless, pregnancy may slow the progress of the condition. Women whose periods cycle last longer than a week with an interval of less than 27 days between them seem to be more prone to the condition.

Endometrial implants are most often found on the pelvic organs, including the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and in the cavity at the back of the uterus. Sometimes, this tissue grows in such distant parts of the body as the lungs, arms, and kidneys. Endometriosis is a progressive condition that typically advances gradually over the course of many years.

Causes and symptoms
Even though the precise cause of endometriosis is mysterious, a number of theories have been put forward. Some of the popular theories are:

• Implantation theory states that a problem in the direction of menstrual flow sends discarded endometrial cells into the body cavity where they connect to internal organs and seed endometrial implants. There is a considerable fact to support this theory.
• Vascular-lymphatic theory suggests that the blood vessels or lymph system are the vehicles for deliver of endometrial cells out of the uterus.

In addition to those theories, the following factors are considered to influence the growth of endometriosis:

• Genetics. A woman’s possibility of developing endometriosis is 7 times greater if her mother or sisters have the disease.

• Immune system function. Women with endometriosis may have poorer functioning immune systems that have difficulty eliminating stray endometrial cells.
• Dioxin exposure. Some research suggests a connection between the exposures to dioxin, a poisonous chemical found in weed killers, and the development of endometriosis.

The most common symptoms are:

• Menstrual soreness. Pain in the lower stomach that begins a day or two before the menstrual period starts and continues until the end is characteristic of endometriosis. A number of women also inform lower back pain, and pain during bowel movement and urination, particularly during their periods.
• Sore sexual intercourse. Pressure on the cervix and vagina causes severe pain for some women.
• Abnormal blood loss. Heavy menstrual periods, spotting, and irregular bleeding, are common features of endometriosis.
• Infertility. There is a strong connection between infertility and endometriosis , although the reasons for this haven’t been completely explained.

Treatment

Although harsh endometriosis should not be self treated, many women find they can help reduce symptoms through alternative healing.

Diet

A high-fiber diet, particularly from beans and grains, may reduce inflammation and cramping. The oils in nuts, seeds, and certain fish (salmon, cold, mackerel, and sardines) are helpful to relieve cramping. Carrots, lemons, beets, cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts, onions, garlic, citrus fruits, vegetables, chicory, radicchio, and yogurt may help to reduce symptoms.

Animal fats and sugar can increase inflammation and aggravate pain. Meat and milk may contain hormones so they should be avoided. Vegetarian may be recommended for those with endometriosis.

Supplements
The following can be used to cure endometriosis:

• vitamin B complex to assist the liver break down excess estrogen
• vitamin C to ease heavy menstrual bleeding
• calcium
• bioflavonoids to help reduce heavy menstrual blood loss
• magnesium to relieve pain and scrub down toxins
• vitamin E to cure inflamed tissues
• iron for anemia resulting from heavy bleeding
• fish oil capsules, flax oil, or any essential fatty acid to diminish cramping

Other cures for endometriosis include acupuncture or acupressure to ease pain, guided imagery, visualization, naturopathy, homeopathy (sepia, and belladonna), hydrotherapy, work out, and meditation.

Drugs for pain relievers such as aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen are useful for menstrual pain and mild cramping.

There is no verified way to avoid endometriosis. How endometriosis is treated depends on the woman’s age, symptoms, the level of the disease, and her personal preferences. Treatment focuses on preserving fertility, managing pain, and delaying the progress of the disease.