Editorial - Journal of Clinical Endocrinology Research (2021) Volume 4, Issue 2
Abnormalities associated with endometriosis
Christophe Joanna*
Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA
- Corresponding Author:
- Christophe Joanna
Department of Obstetrics
Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences
University of California, San Francisco
USA
E-mail: Joannachristophe@gmail.com
Accepted date: October 12, 2021
Citation: Joanna C. Abnormalities associated with endometriosis. J Clin Endocrinol Res. 2021;4(2):1-2.
Description
Endometriosis is a common health problem in women; it is a condition in which tissue normally found in the uterus grows in places where it shouldn't. Endometriosis is often a painful disorder that takes place primarily in the pelvic area. It is rare for this tissue to spread beyond the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and the tissues that line the pelvic area. The uterus is usually lined with tissue (called the endometrium) that grows and thickens each month to prepare for pregnancy. The hormones produced by the ovaries control this monthly process. When pregnancy does not occur, blood and tissues break down and leave the body as menstrual flow (a period). However, problems arise when endometrial tissue grows in areas outside the uterus, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel or rectum, or the tissue that lines the pelvis. The hormones say that the displaced tissue (called the implant) breaks down every month, but the blood and tissues have no way out of the body. Scar tissue and cysts (bags often filled with old blood) can develop. Sometimes large cysts break open. Endometriosis can cause chronic pain and infertility. About 30 to 40% of women with endometriosis have a hard time getting pregnant. Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows in the ovaries, intestines, and tissues that line the pelvis. It is rare for endometrial tissue to extend beyond the pelvic region, but it is not impossible. The endometrial tissue that grows outside your uterus is called an endometrial implant. Hormonal changes in your menstrual cycle affect misplaced endometrial tissue, causing the area to become swollen and painful. This means that the tissue grows, thickens, and breaks down. Over time, the disintegrated tissue has nowhere to go and remains trapped in the pelvis. The specific reason is unknown. One viable reason is a procedure referred to as retrograde menstruation. It happens whilst menstrual blood flows returned via the fallopian tubes into the pelvis rather than out of the body. Then tissue from the uterus remains with inside the pelvis and grows. Another viable reason is inheriting a gene that will increase the threat for endometriosis.
Endometriosis is a chronic, noncancerous condition where cells that resemble the uterus lining, called endometrial cells, grow outside the uterus. The tissue that lines the uterus is called the endometrium. People with a history of endometriosis have a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer or adenocarcinoma. However, The Lancet trusted Source reports that the risk remains small throughout life and there is no need to rush into radical treatment. There is currently no cure for this condition, but it can be treated with great care. Care should include both a pain management plan and a healthy lifestyle with good diet and exercise.
Foods that can affect endometriosis
Certain lifestyle habits can affect the progression of endometriosis and increase your risk of developing it. These decisions can also affect how painful or how well the disorder is treated. Although more research is needed to fully link certain foods or lifestyle choices to the development or worsening of this condition. Research has found higher endometriosis diagnosis rates in women who consume more trans-fat. Tran’s fats are mainly found in fried, processed and fast foods. Learn more about why Tran’s fats are so bad for your health. Consumption of red meat, some research has shown an increased risk of developing endometriosis with a high consumption of red meat.
Some symptoms improved significantly in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and endometriosis that were on a low-FODMAP diet. Foods that can influence hormonal regulation, especially estrogen balance, can have a negative effect on endometriosis patients. Also, avoid or limit foods that promote inflammation in the body and can lead to further pain or disease progression. These foods include: Alcohol, caffeine, gluten, red meat, saturated and trans fats.
Foods that may have positive effects on endometriosis
To combat the inflammation and pain of endometriosis, it is best to eat a balanced, nutritious diet that is primarily plantbased and full of vitamins and minerals. Add them to your diet:
• Fibrous foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains
• Iron-rich foods such as dark leafy vegetables, broccoli, beans, fortified cereals, nuts and seeds
• Foods rich in essential fatty acids such as salmon, sardines, Herring, trout, walnuts, chia and flaxseed
• Foods rich in antioxidants in colourful fruits and vegetables such as oranges, berries, dark chocolate, spinach and beets
Pay attention to how your body is doing when you eat certain foods. It can help to keep a diary of the foods you eat and any symptoms or triggers you have. Consider meeting with a registered dietitian. They can help you plan the meals that are best for you and endometriosis, as there is no one-size-fits-all approach.