A new study tested a potential drug for reducing endometriosis pain and relieving symptoms. Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder in which cells in the uterus lining grow out to other areas of the body. The condition might result in a hysterectomy. Current treatment methods for endometriosis are largely hindered by a slew of side effects, and surgical procedures are quite risky. Clinical trials were carried out to test a drug that has potential to relieve pain and other symptoms associated with endometriosis.
The Violet Petal Study recruited patients for a one- to two-year long study to determine the effectiveness of a drug called Elagolix. Lead researcher Sanjay Agarwal said, “Endometriosis can be an extremely painful disease, especially during a woman’s menstrual cycle. Many women find themselves debilitated during these bouts, and the disease can also cause pain during intercourse and increase infertility.”
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Current treatments involve injections to lower estrogen, but this can result in bone loss, mood swings, and hot flashes. Agarwal added, “Many patients have to take a secondary medication to counteract the side effects from current treatment options. The hope with Elagolix, taken daily, is to suppress estrogen just enough to take away the pain associated with endometriosis but without the harsh side effects to the body.”
There is currently no cure for endometriosis, and treatment is usually needed until a woman enters menopause.
Endometriosis pain relief
Severe pelvic and back pain is common symptoms experienced in endometriosis and although uncomfortable, there are ways you can reduce it in order to be able to go about your everyday life. Here are some tips to experience relief from endometriosis-related pain.
- Apply heat packs
- Reduce stress
- Use over-the-counter painkillers
- Try physiotherapy
- Use pain modifiers – drugs that alter the body’s perception of pain
- Visit pain clinics that specialize in chronic pain and pain reduction
- Exercise
- Get proper sleep
- Take naps when necessary
- Eat healthy meals
- Keep close connections with loved ones
- Try yoga
- Stick to a routine
- Talk to a counselor
Practicing some of these tips and working close with your doctor can help you obtain the relief you need to live with endometriosis.
Related Reading:
Endometriosis, a chronic disorder in women, causes, symptoms, and natural treatment
Endometriosis is a painful condition that affects an estimated one in 10 women during their reproductive years. Statistical studies show this works out to about 176 million women around the world between the ages of 15 and 49. Continue reading…
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Endometriosis increases risk of pregnancy complications, affects fertility in women
Endometriosis increases the risk of pregnancy complications and affects fertility in women. Study author Dr. Lucky Saraswat said, “These results indicate that endometriosis predisposes women to an increased risk of early pregnancy loss and later pregnancy complications.” Continue reading…
Sources:
https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/pain-relief-endometriosis
http://youngwomenshealth.org/2014/08/01/endometriosis-coping-with-pain/
http://health.ucsd.edu/news/releases/Pages/2012-10-08-study-tests-endometriosis-treatment.aspx
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
