4 Signs You May Actually Have Endometriosis

Painful cramps (back, abdomen or groin). Painful bowel movements. Heavy and/or long menstrual bleeding. Fatigue. Bloating. Pain during intercourse. If this sounds like your run-of-the-mill period, then we’ve got a problem. That’s because many of those symptoms are key signs of the common condition, endometriosis.

This disorder occurs when the endometrial tissue that forms the lining of the uterus, grows other places in the body. Once outside of the uterus, the tissue is able to reproduce itself and continue spreading. On top of that, many of the most common symptoms of endometriosis mimic those of PMS, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Therefore, endometriosis growths often go unchecked and the condition remains undiagnosed, sometimes for upwards of a decade.

To ensure that women of all ages—from the time of your first menstrual cycle to your last—know the common signs of endometriosis, Sheila Warren, RN, GMC’s Wellness Navigator, explains the key symptoms you should never ignore.

Painful cramps.

Yes, a certain amount of cramping during your period is to be expected. After all, your uterus is contracting to shed its lining. However, there’s a point at which cramps turn from bearable—albeit unpleasant—to extremely severe and painful.

“For instance, sharp localized or shooting pain in your abdomen, groin, back or rectum, this could be a sign of endometriosis, especially if you notice this pain between andduring your period,” explains Warren.

“If you’re on the fence about whether or not your cramps are really that severe, a good rule-of-thumb is whether or not your cramps affect or limit your everyday activities.”

Digestive issues.

When it’s running smoothly, the digestive tract works to process food by moving it from the stomach, though the intestinal tract and finally to the rectum. Unfortunately, there are a lot of factors that can interfere with this process along the way—and it doesn’t take much.

“Whether it’s eating something questionable, having endometriosis or battling IBS, any number of things can disrupt the digestive process,” notes Warren. This leads to symptoms like pain, cramping, constipation, diarrhea and bloating.

“While IBS causes all of these symptoms, there are few key ways endometriosis-induced tummy trouble differs,” adds Warren. “The main takeaway being that with endometriosis, pain and cramping will not decrease after a bowel movement, like it does with IBS.”

Heavy periods.

Depending on who you ask, you’ll receive a different definition of what constitutes a heavy period. This is often based on personal experience. Unfortunately, though, for a woman with endometrioses, a heavy period may be all she knows.

Of course it isn’t just endometriosis that impacts your monthly cycle. There are many other factors that come into play, such as stress, exercise, weight loss/gain and more. 

“There are many different ways to gauge the heaviness of periods—flow, clotting or number of days—so if you feel your periods may be abnormal, it’s best to consult with your medical provider,” emphasizes Warren.

Fatigue.

Energy seems to be one of those things that’s always in short supply. Whether it’s a lack of sleep, sitting in an office all day, eating junk food or all of the above, it doesn’t take much to zap your energy.

However, when that drowsy tiredness that creeps in every afternoon shifts into chronic fatigue, there could be something more at play, like endometriosis. “Because of the increased blood loss each month, some women experience fatigue as a result of anemia,” says Warren.

“If you’re struggling to concentrate, having difficulty sleeping, experiencing aching muscles or joints, or weakness, this may be cause for concern,” notes Warren. “If you notice these symptoms peaking during your period, endometriosis may be the culprit.”

Are there any other symptoms?

The truth is there are a wide variety of symptoms that can be linked to endometriosis. You may notice pain with sex, nausea/vomiting, painful urination, spotting or no symptoms at all. “The only way you’ll really know if its endometriosis or something else entirely, is to work with your healthcare provider,” notes Warren.

“If you notice any of these symptoms, or are experiencing something that’s abnormal for you, don’t wait to get care.” Put your mind and symptoms at ease by talking with the provider that knows you and your health best.

Complete care for every stage of life.

The expertsof Gwinnett Physicians Group–OB/GYN are dedicated to fulfilling the unique medical needs of women. With an extensive range of comprehensive women’s health services, you will receive personalized care you deserve. And because we know that women’s health extends beyond gynecologic and reproductive care, Gwinnett Physician’s Group OB/GYN can connect you with the vast array of services and resources of GMC.

Do You Really Gain Weight During PMS?

When it comes to premenstrual syndrome (PMS), it’s hard to decide which symptom is worst. Because let’s face it, they’re all terrible. For some it may be the painful cramping and mood swings, for others it may be the headaches and the nonstop food cravings. But one thing most women can agree on—PMS isn’t exactly a feel-good experience.

And to top it all off, the period weight gain definitely doesn’t help the situation. But it can be hard to tell if you actually put on extra weight during thattime of month, or if it’s just the result of feeling bloated, uncomfortable and yucky. Well, as it turns out, it’s a combination of all of the above.

The key takeaway, though, is that you aren’t alone in feeling this way. And depending on which stage of the cycle you’re in, the culprit behind your heaviness may vary. Thankfully, Sheila Warren, RN, GMC’s Wellness Navigator, provides some much needed insight on 5 ways your period can mess with your waistline.

1.    The dynamic duo. In this case, we aren’t referring to cookies ‘n’ cream or PB & J, instead we’re focusing on estrogen and progesterone. As you may know, these two hormones play an instrumental role in the whole reproductive system.

So, each month, during ovulation and right before your period starts, your estrogen and progesterone levels skyrocket. As a result, your body retains water, which can increase your weight by as much as 10 pounds—but 5 is the average.

2.    Excess gas.After you’ve survived PMS and your period starts (finally!), your progesterone and estrogen levels drop significantly, and so does the water weight. However, in its place comes excess gas, which can make you feel bloated.

While bloating doesn’t actually make you any heavier, it can make you feel bigger.

3.    Tummy troubles. It isn’t just excess gas that makes your midsection feel all poufy; it may also be the result of constipation. As it turns out, that rapid rise of hormones during ovulation can cause constipation.

Once your hormone levels fall during your period, this can have the opposite impact, making diarrhea more likely. And to compound things, all those irresistible cravings can disrupt digestion, too.

4.    Indulgence. Let’s face the facts: salt-filled foods and all-things chocolate always sound delicious. However, when PMS symptoms kick in and you start your period, you don’t necessarily feel your best. One way to cope with feeling tired, uncomfortable and yucky, is to indulge in those cravings.

However, because you aren’t exactly craving celery and hummus during lady time, giving into those unhealthy foods only worsens the discomfort. And if you skip your workout, you’ll really be battling the bloat.

5.    It’s something else. While battling some discomfort during Aunt Flow’s visit is normal, if you notice steady weight gain without fluctuation or a change in your behavior, there could be another cause. Common conditions like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and hypothyroidism can cause a change in weight.

One of the best things you can do is to keep a period diary, and to work with your primary care provider. As the healthcare expert that knows you best, he or she can help identify any abnormalities or changes in your body and health. You are unique and your health care should be, too.

Everyone Has Diarrhea: 7 Things You Should Know

The runs. The squirts. Or just plain ol’ diarrhea. Whatever name you give it, there’s simply no denying that it stinks—in more ways than one. Between the cramping, pain, urgency and discomfort, having diarrheais just downright miserable.

And thanks to a variety of different causes—ranging from infections and food allergies to medication reactions and IBS—it may seem impossible to avoid that next, looming episode of tummy torture. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of a bad situation.

So, while it may feel like your stomach hates you, diarrhea is usually just a temporary condition that will pass in a day or 2. But, depending on your symptoms, a day or 2 may feel like an eternity. Here are 7 things to keep in mind the next time it strikes (some of them will help you find the relief you need ASAP):

  1. The most common causes of diarrhea:

·         Contaminated food or water (bacteria that may contaminate food or water include campylobacter, salmonella, shigella and E. coli)

·         Viral infection (viruses that can cause diarrhea include rotavirus (especially in children), Norwalk virus (found in some shellfish), cytomegalovirus and viral hepatitis)

·         Food intolerance (people who are lactose intolerant are not able to digest the sugar found in milk and frequently have diarrhea if they drink milk or other dairy products)

·         Medications (medicines such as antibiotics and antacids that contain magnesium)

   2. Chronic diarrhea is common and these are the top causes:

·         Celiac disease is a digestive disease caused by the body's abnormal response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. In people with celiac disease, the gluten causes a loss of the villi, the finger-like projections in the intestine that absorb nutrients and fluids. This leads to chronic diarrhea, gas and other gastrointestinal problems.

·         Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder that interferes with the function of the large intestine (colon). Diarrhea is one symptom of IBS; others include abdominal pain, bloating and constipation.

·         Diabetes can also cause constipation or diarrhea.

   3. Diarrhea and children:

·         More than 55,000 children in the US will have a Rotavirus infection, which oftentimes causes severe diarrhea. Many of the cases occur in the winter and early spring, and are common in day-care centers and children's hospitals. Rotavirus diarrhea usually goes away in 3 to 8 days.

   4. What’s normal and what’s not:

·         There’s more to diarrhea than meets the eye. Oftentimes, these episodes will be accompanied by a variety of other symptoms, such as: abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, dehydration and fever.

·         You should call your doctor if your diarrhea continues for more than 3 days; you have severe pain in your abdomen or rectum; you have a fever of at least 102° F (39° C); you have blood in your stool or have black, tarry stools; or you have signs of dehydration.

   5. You should definitely not drink this:

·         Avoid beverages that contain caffeine such as coffee, tea, and soda. Fruit juice, sugary drinks, and sports drinks can make diarrhea and dehydration worse. For infants and children with more than mild diarrhea, a doctor usually recommends special beverages that contain electrolytes.

·         Instead, opt for water or broth.

   6. Foods to have in your pantry: (your stomach will thank you)

·         It's best to eat soft, bland foods until your diarrhea goes away—think bananas, rice, applesauce, eggs, crackers and plain toast.

·         Make sure to avoid milk and milk products, as well as foods that are greasy, high in fiber or very sweet.

   7. Don’t suffer through it, instead try this:

·         There are a variety of different remedies that can help to soothe stomach suffering—that bright-pink, chalky liquid comes to mind, right? But, if that isn’t working, you may start to feel desperate for some much needed relief (trust us, we get it). That’s why Gwinnett Medical Group Primary Care offers the care you need exactly when you need it.

·        And with a convenient new location in Suwanee, you can enjoy one-stop access to primary care and gastroenterology services—not to mention cardiology, OB/GYN and rheumatology care.