Debunking the Myths around Endometriosis

Over 2.5 crore Indian women suffer from endometriosis which often remains undiagnosed and untreated due to limited awareness. This gynecological condition is also the leading cause of infertility among women. Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that is similar to the tissue that lines your uterus grows outside of the uterus. These cells react to hormonal changes that take place throughout the menstrual cycle, which can result in pain and inflammation in the tissue around them.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

The main symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, often associated with menstrual periods. Although many experience cramping during their menstrual periods, those with endometriosis typically describe menstrual pain that is debilitating and affects their quality of life. The common signs and symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Intense pain during periods
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Pain during sex
• Pain on opening your bowels
• Difficulty getting pregnant

Seeing a gynaecologist on time and discussing your symptoms and getting the required tests done is the key to diagnosing this condition and seeking medical care.

Common Myths & Facts of Endometriosis

Myth: Endometriosis is rare
Fact: Endometriosis affects up to 10% of women between the ages of 15 and 44. Despite how widespread it is, it usually takes eight years to receive a diagnosis. The only reliable method of diagnosis is through laparoscopic, or keyhole, procedure that allows visualization of the pelvic cavity.

Myth: Endometriosis is just painful periods
Fact: While painful periods are a symptom of endometriosis – it is far more than that. Contrary to normal periods, endometriosis pain isn’t just brought on by the uterus contracting; it’s also brought on by endometrial-like tissue that is growing in other places in the pelvic cavity and causing discomfort and inflammation. Because this tissue can develop in the bladder, bowel, and, in extremely uncommon circumstances, the lung, it is possible for pain and other symptoms to manifest throughout the body.

Myth: A gluten-free diet can treat endometriosis
Fact: Medical research doesn’t support the claim that use of a gluten-free diet can reduce your endometrial symptoms. Going gluten-free necessitates a major diet overhaul, which also entails cutting out many healthy foods like fortified wholegrain breads and cereals, which are a significant source of fibre and minerals. If you have endometriosis and are worried that you can’t tolerate gluten, you must consult your dietician.

Myth: If you have endometriosis, you can’t get pregnant
Fact: Most women suffering from endometriosis are concerned about their fertility and ability to become pregnant. The reality is that while there is a link between endometriosis and fertility issues, natural conception is still possible even in cases of severe endometriosis. Statistics suggest that 60–70% of people with endometriosis are thought to be able to conceive naturally.

Myth: Endometriosis patients must avoid dairy products
Fact: The reason behind this myth is for the widespread misconception that dairy causes inflammation, despite the fact that many dairy products are actually considered to be anti-inflammatory. There is not enough medical research available to support this claim. A well balanced diet filled with organic foods is recommended for endometriosis patients.

Myth: Surgery can cure Endometriosis
Fact: There isn’t a single treatment for endometriosis. After a diagnosis, there are numerous choices for managing the illness. While a surgical procedure aims to remove existing endometriotic tissue and scar tissue, it does not address the fundamental reasons for the growth of endometrial tissue.

Endometriosis treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

Endometriosis is a serious condition that affects many women worldwide. Early detection and treatment are crucial in easing the symptoms. The Department of Gynaecology & Obstetrics at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai has experienced and compassionate doctors who work with patients to diagnose and manage this condition. Do not suffer in silence for unusually heavy or painful periods. Consult our team for a detailed evaluation and further care. Please find below our website details:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicsatkh/endometriosisclinic.html https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/gynaecologyobstetrics.html

The thyroid is a tiny, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. It significantly affects general health and wellbeing and is essential for your body’s metabolism. Unfortunately, millions of people throughout the world experience thyroid diseases such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Statistics suggest that thyroid disorders are one of the most common endocrine disorders and affect nearly 4.2 crore Indians.

How does the thyroid gland function?

The thyroid gland makes hormones that control various aspects of the body’s metabolism, such as heart rate, body temperature, and the rate at which energy is used by the body. Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) are released into the bloodstream to do this. These hormones are essential for preserving the body’s homeostasis, or overall equilibrium. The body’s metabolism runs more efficiently when the thyroid is in good health. However, thyroid abnormalities can result in a number of different health problems.

Common thyroid disorders

There are several thyroid disorders that can affect the body’s metabolism and overall health. The most common include:

• Hypothyroidism
  This occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone. 
• Hyperthyroidism
  This occurs when the thyroid gland makes high levels of thyroid hormone.
• Goiter
  This is a condition that causes the thyroid gland to become enlarged, resulting in a visible swelling in the neck. This may occur due to a variety of factors, including an iodine deficiency, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications.
• Thyroid nodules
  These are small lumps that can form in the thyroid gland. Most thyroid nodules are benign (non-cancerous), but some rare ones may be cancerous.
• Thyroid cancer
  This is a cancer that affects the thyroid gland.

Warning signs of thyroid disease

Depending on whether the body is producing too much or too little thyroid hormone, different indicators of thyroid disorders might be seen in different people. Thyroid issues are more common in women than in men. Around 1 in 8 women may experience thyroid issues at least once in their lives. Some women are more prone to thyroid issues than others, depending on factors including age, body type, and the level of thyroid hormone in the body. Here are some of the signs and symptoms that could indicate a thyroid abnormality:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Sensitivity to heat and cold
• Significant weight gain or weight loss
• Change in the appearance
• Feeling miserable
• Headaches
• Mood swings
• Digestive issues
• Dry skin
• Menstrual irregularities
• Fertility issues
• Thinning hair

While these symptoms may not necessarily indicate thyroid problems, you must still speak to your doctor for further testing and diagnosis. Thyroid disorders can often be diagnosed through a blood test that measures the levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the body. This helps take the required medical action and reduces your risk of suffering from thyroid complications.

Facts about your thyroid

Here are some essential things to know about your thyroid gland:

• A TSH test is the most accurate way to diagnose a thyroid imbalance.
• Stress can worsen thyroid disorders.
• A thyroid imbalance must be addressed before and during pregnancy.
• Thyroid disorders can be emotional.
• Thyroid disorders usually require lifelong treatment.
• Women are more prone than men to have thyroid issues.
• Most thyroid disorders cannot be prevented.

Treatment of thyroid disorders

Treatment for thyroid disorders typically involves medication to correct hormone imbalances. Surgery might be required in some complex cases to remove all or a part of the thyroid gland. Thyroid imbalance is serious and can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being. You must take charge of your thyroid health without any delay and seek specialist care. Consult doctors at our Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes for a detailed evaluation, management and care of your thyroid. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent long-term health complications. Do refer this link for further details:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/endocrinologydiabetes/thyroidclinic.html

Cannot stop munching on that pack of chips? Love bingeing on your favourite gulab jamuns? Do you love indulging in your favourite cuisines? Be it a celebration or a regular day do you tend to overeat often? Overeating has both short-term and long-term health repercussions. Despite the fact that it makes you feel even worse later, people also use food to deal with stress and other unpleasant feelings. Even though it may seem like you’re caught in a never-ending cycle, binge eating disorder is curable. You may learn to regulate your eating and form a positive connection with food with the correct guidance and support.

When you frequently take more calories than your body requires to maintain normal physical function, it is a sign of an overeating habit. The habit does not, however, develop overnight. People who struggle with overeating frequently engage in the behaviour on several occasions. Over a period of time this can damage your health.

What happens when you overeat?

The signal from your brain informing your stomach that you are full takes around 20 minutes to reach your stomach. When you consume food after you reach this stage of fullness, you are overeating. A heavy meal can have both short-term and long-term effects on your organs, weight, and sleep. Find out what really happens to your body when you overeat:

• Overeating causes the stomach to expand beyond its normal size to accommodate the excess food. This discomfort can make you feel tired, sluggish or drowsy.
• Your organs must work harder when you eat too much.
•  The stomach secretes hydrochloric acid to digest food. Heartburn may arise from this acid backing up into the oesophagus after an excessive meal.
• Your stomach may also produce gas, leaving you with pain, discomfort and a full feeling.

Dangers of overeating

When you eat a lot, you end up with a heavy, sore, stuffed belly. Everybody experiences this occasionally. Large calorie intake is exhibited by individuals with binge eating disorders. That may completely wreck your system. The way the body functions is altered by this eating disorder. Here are a few long-term physical effects of binge eating disorder. 

• Weight gain
  When you binge eat, you frequently gain weight. Overweight people make about two thirds of patients with the disease. When you eat a lot of food quickly and don’t work off the calories through exercise, you may gain excess weight. Being overweight or obese also increases your risk of several chronic diseases.
• Heart disease
  Your heart has to work harder to pump blood to your body and lungs if you are overweight. High blood pressure, excessive cholesterol, and high blood sugar are all risks associated with being overweight, especially in the area around the abdomen. Your risk of heart attack and stroke is increased by all of these factors.
• Type 2 Diabetes
  Type 2 diabetes is more likely to occur in overweight people than in other people. That happens when your body is unable to produce or utilize insulin sufficiently to maintain a healthy level of blood sugar. Type 2 diabetes can result from binge eating disorder.
• Depression
  People with binge eating disorders are more likely to experience depression and anxiety. Many individuals who binge eat do it to elevate their mood. This might make you feel guilty and encourage further bingeing.
• Sleep problems
  Research shows people with binge eating disorder are more likely than others to have trouble sleeping and suffer from sleep apnea. This sleep condition causes you to have frequent pauses while breathing.
• Joint problems
  Your joints can be harmed by the extra weight brought on by binge eating disorder. It might result in osteoarthritis. Your joints’ cartilage starts to erode at that point. Any joint, including the fingers, hips, and knees, may experience this.
• Fertility and pregnancy problems
  Binge eating disorder can also impact your fertility. Instead of following a normal cycle, periods might be erratic. During pregnancy, overweight women are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure and high blood sugar, both of which are harmful to the mother and the unborn child.

Smart ways to avoid overeating

While everyone may feel tempted occasionally, here are some simple yet effective tips to stay away from overeating:

• Pay attention to your portion sizes.
• Avoid processed and deep-fried foods.
• Eat more salads and stir fries.
• Eat fresh fruits as snacks.
• Avoid distractions when you eat, such as watching screens or talking on the phone.
• Eat slowly and chew your food well.
• Stay hydrated.
• Plan your meals ahead. 

If you are suffering from an eating disorder or are overweight or obese, we highly recommend meeting our dieticians at the Department of Nutrition Therapy. A personalized diet plan is very helpful in correcting your eating habits and will help improve your health. Please find below the website link for more details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/nutritiontherapy.html