The pain caused by endometriosis greatly affects the lives of people suffering from this disease. The level of pain is so debilitating that endometriosis has been included by the NHS in the Top 20 most painful diseases, placing it at number 15.
Research shows that the most common symptoms of endometriosis among affected women are chronic pelvic pain (71.1%), dysmenorrhea (69%), back pain (54%), pain during intercourse (45.2%) and painful defecation (36.5%), while only 22.8% of diagnosed women are asymptomatic.
Depending on the type of symptoms and the type of disease, there might be some ways in which the pain can be relieved to increase the quality of life in this battle with the condition. Here are some of them.
1. Heat therapy
Heat therapy is a simple but effective method to ease the intensity of pain caused by endometriosis. Applying a heating device or a hot water bottle to the lower abdomen can help relax the muscles, relieve cramps and reduce pain.
Warm baths or showers can also provide relief. Heat therapy is a non-invasive and affordable option that you can use in the comfort of your own home to manage pain during periods or painful episodes.
2. Physical exercises
Exercise tailored to address pelvic floor dysfunction may be beneficial for people with endometriosis. Pelvic floor exercises aim to improve muscle function, relieve tension and reduce pain in the pelvic region.
A qualified physical therapist can also guide you through exercises and techniques to strengthen and relax the pelvic floor muscles, giving you relief from endometriosis pain. This approach is especially valuable for people who have pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse.
Yoga is another beneficial practice for people with endometriosis. The combination of movement, breath control and meditation can relieve pain symptoms, but also reduce stress and better manage anxiety.
3. Lifestyle changes
Making certain lifestyle changes can help manage endometriosis pain. Regular exercise, low-impact activities such as walking or swimming, can help improve general well-being and reduce pain.
In addition, eating a balanced and nutritious diet can help reduce inflammation and support overall health. Some people find pain relief by incorporating anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids into their diet.
Avoiding triggers such as caffeine and alcohol during flare-ups can also help manage symptoms.
4. Mind-body techniques
Mind-body techniques, including mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing exercises, can be powerful tools in managing endometriosis pain. These practices focus on promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and improving overall mental well-being.
Epsom salt baths are one of the techniques used successfully for pain relief and relaxation. Also, people with chronic pain and high stress levels can benefit from regular relaxation massages.
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and progressive muscle relaxation are examples of techniques that have shown promise in helping individuals cope with chronic pain conditions. Integrating mind-body practices into your daily routine can contribute to a more positive outlook and a better ability to navigate the challenges of life with endometriosis.
Living with endometriosis can be challenging, but effective pain management strategies can significantly improve the quality of life for people dealing with the condition. Combining medical interventions with lifestyle changes and mind-body techniques creates a holistic approach to managing endometriosis pain.
By exploring some of these methods and finding the right combination for individual circumstances, people affected by endometriosis can take proactive steps to regain control of their lives and experience relief from chronic pain.
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