There are certain health issues that affect women which often go undetected. While scheduling an annual examination with your gynaecologist is always a good idea, watch out for certain signs that could indicate an underlying disorder. One needn’t fret, as most of these issues are fairly commonplace and can easily be managed by medication.
1. Menstrual Cramps
Ladies, this is something that we’re all too familiar with. Most women experience painful sensations felt in the lower abdomen both before and during the menstrual period. The pain ranges from dull and annoying to unbearable. In most cases, this pain may last up to 4 days and is quite normal. Getting a massage or using heat could help alleviate the pain. However, if the pain is unbearable and/or lasts longer, it could signal an underlying issue (possibly one of the few listed below) that can be identified by your gynaecologist.
2. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is the development of uterine-lining tissue outside the uterus and symptoms include severe abdominal pain, heavy flow during periods and infertility. Often, there are no symptoms and it may go undetected, which is why yearly examinations are crucial. If diagnosed, it can be managed, on the advice of a specialist, by using pain relievers or hormones.
Also read: Missing Your Period & Other Health Alerts You Must NOT Ignore!
3. PCOS
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a condition in which a woman’s levels of oestrogen and progesterone are out of balance, which leads to the growth of ovarian cysts (benign masses on the ovaries). PCOS can interfere with a woman’s menstrual cycle, fertility, cardiac function, hair growth, skin etc. While the exact cause remains unknown, genes may be blamed. The type and severity of the symptoms differ from woman to woman, but an irregular menstrual cycle is the most common symptom. Blood tests would indicate hormone levels and ultrasound scans can reveal any cysts. The treatment for PCOS is focussed on managing the symptoms and hormonal levels through appropriate medication.
4. UTIs
Women run the risk of Urinary Tract Infections and the symptoms range from a burning sensation when you pee to tiredness, chilliness, fever etc. If you experience any of these symptoms, your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to help cure the infection. Drinking lots of water or cranberry juice can help ease the symptoms.
Also read: All Girls Get UTIs. So Here’s What You Should Know About Them.
5. Thyroid Imbalance
This is one of the most common health issues faced by both men and women, but women are much more susceptible to it. Irregular levels of production of thyroxine, attributed to an underactive or overactive thyroid gland, cause a plethora of issues such as unexplainable weight loss/gain, hair fall, inability to fall asleep, lethargy, dry skin etc. A simple blood test can determine your thyroid levels and appropriate medication can help manage this issue. Genetics may be a cause, so, if anyone in your family has a thyroid disorder, be sure to get yourself regularly checked.
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