Is Endometriosis Genetic
Endometriosis is a complicated condition, and it is caused by the abnormal development of tissue outside the uterus that looks like uterine lining (endometrial tissue). An individual's chance of developing it can be influenced by various variables other than genes.
Endometrial tissue sheds throughout a person's period in response to the hormonal changes of ovulation. This similar tissue outside the uterus has no place to shed with Endometriosis, resulting in discomfort and pain. This article will discuss the link between Endometriosis and genetics and the symptoms, risk factors, and possible treatments.
Endometriosis may be genetic. Although researchers are still trying to figure out the faulty gene, genetics is unlikely to be the single or most important risk factor. According to a 2019 study, there are over 24 potential causes apart from the gene.
In a 2010 research, 80 women with Endometriosis and 60 women without it were compared. Endometriosis patients were more likely to have a family member who had the condition. Only 3% of individuals without Endometriosis had a first-degree relative with the disease, compared to 5.9% of those with Endometriosis.
It was still extremely low even if the chance of having a family with Endometriosis was almost doubled. When researchers examined the symptoms of persons with Endometriosis and a family history of the disease to those of patients with Endometriosis but no family history, they found no significant changes.
Endometriosis was also shown to be more common in first-degree relatives (mother to daughters), second-degree relatives (aunt), and third-degree relatives (cousins), according to 1999 research.
Who is at risk of Endometriosis?
A person is more likely to develop Endometriosis, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), if they have a first-degree relative who suffers from Endometriosis, the first period before the age of 11, have menstrual periods that extend longer than 7 days, have a short menstrual cycle (less than 27 days), and are infertile.
A variety of factors, in addition to the potential genetic connection, may raise the chance of having Endometriosis, including:
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Age 30's and 40's
- Stress, pollution, and hormone-disrupting substances, as well as other environmental and lifestyle variables
What are the Symptoms of Endometriosis?
Depending on where the tissue develops, symptoms of Endometriosis include:
- Severe pelvic pain
- Infertility issues
- Rectal bleeding
- Bruising during periods
- Passing big blood clots over some time
- Lengthy or frequent heavy periods
- Discomfort during sex
- Persistent lower back discomfort
- Pain in the legs
- Discomfort when urinating
- Constipation or unpleasant bowel motions, particularly during periods
What are the Causes of Endometriosis?
It is still unclear what causes Endometriosis; however, here are the likely causes:
Surgery complications
Endometrial cells can stick to scar tissue following surgery in rare situations (like a C-section or hysterectomy). After then, the cells might spread to other parts of the body.
Problems with the immune system
Endometriosis has been associated with immunological diseases such as fibromyalgia, hypothyroidism, and rheumatoid arthritis. Further study is needed to clarify this link. However, this may be because Endometriosis can induce inflammation, which triggers an immunological response.
Retrograde menstruation
This is when the blood and tissues of menstruation move upstream. Endometrial tissue may be deposited in different parts of your abdomen and pelvis due to this procedure. According to a recent study, up to 90% of people who have periods will have retrograde menstruation, and however, the majority of these women will not develop Endometriosis.
Cell transport
Endometrial-like cells can migrate through the lymphatic system to other regions of your body. The Fallopian tubes, ovaries, and abdominal or pelvic walls are the most prevalent locations. For instance. Endometriosis can typically affect the urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, soft tissues, and chest.
Cell transformation
Endometriosis can develop in any part of the body, and this might be due to intrinsic alterations in cells outside the uterus that transform them into endometrial-like cells.
If Endometriosis runs in my family, what can I do?
There is no scientific evidence that you can avoid Endometriosis. However, we know that the condition is linked to the sex hormone estrogen. On the other hand, lowering your levels may help lessen your risk. Lowering estrogen can be accomplished in a variety of methods, including the following:
- Regular exercise
- Cut down on your caffeine consumption
- Limit yourself to one boozy beverage every day
- Seek medical help after severe menstrual cramp
- Maintain heavyweight
- Reduce alcohol intake
The nature of your uterine ailment determines treatments for Endometriosis. It can also be influenced by your age, the severity of your symptoms, the amount of endometrial tissue in your body, and if you wish to have a child in the future.
Here is a breakdown of the most often used treatments.
1. Hormone Therapy can inhibit ovulation by lowering estrogen levels. Endometriosis symptoms such as excessive bleeding and discomfort may be alleviated with this treatment. You have the option of taking the pill, getting injections, or using the nasal spray.
2. Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help you feel better for a while, but they won't fix your problem. If over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers don't work, talk to your doctor about getting an Rx pain reliever.
3. Your doctor may recommend surgical procedures if hormonal therapies don't work.
Three most common endometriosis surgeries:
- Laparoscopy: A technique that takes only a few minor incisions and is minimally invasive. Your surgeon will remove endometriosis tissue from the damaged regions with heat, a knife, or a laser.
- Laparotomy: This procedure may be used if endometriosis patches cannot be removed with laparoscopic surgery.
- Hysterectomy: This is the procedure in which your entire uterus is removed. Your cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes may be removed as well.
It is essential to know that:
- Individual recovery times vary, but most people recover in 6 to 8 weeks
- You will not be able to conceive following this procedure
- Endometriosis may reappear after surgery. Within two years of surgery, symptoms recur in roughly 40% to 80% of people.
Bottom Line
Endometriosis is a chronic disorder in which endometrial tissues protrude from the uterus. Although there is presently no cure, several excellent therapies help alleviate your symptoms. Researchers are still attempting to figure out what causes it, but there is a fair probability that your genes play a role.
If you have symptoms but no family history of the disease, don't deny the possibility. Anyone experiencing symptoms of Endometriosis should see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.
Disclaimer: The content provided is for educational purposes. It is best to contact your physician for further diagnosis and treatment.
