Disorders of menstruation, as well as menopausal symptoms, often continue into later life, especially with the widespread use of hormone replacement treatment (HRT). The role of HRT in other conditions (heart and circulatory disease, Alzheimer's disease, and osteoporosis) is still somewhat controversial, but the possible benefits, in general, appear to outweigh the known risks.
A uterine fibroid, also called a leiomyoma, or simply myoma, is a benign (non-cancerous) growth composed of smooth muscle and connective tissue. The size of a fibroid varies from that of a pinhead to larger than a melon; fibroid weights of more than 20 pounds have been reported. Fibroids usually grow along or within the thick wall of the uterus in one of its three layers: endometrium (the inner lining), myometrium (the middle and thickest layer), and serosa (the thin, outer fibrous lining). Most fibroids cause few or no symptoms. When they occur, the most common is prolonged and heavy bleeding during menstruation that, in severe cases, can last as long as two weeks. Fibroids can also cause pain in the abdomen or lower back that sometimes feels like menstrual cramps. Very large fibroids may give the abdomen the appearance of pregnancy and cause a feeling of heaviness and pressure. Unusually large fibroids may press against the bladder and urinary tract and cause frequent urination or urinary urgency.
0 comments:
Post a Comment