Stage 4endometriosisis the most severe form of this chronic disease.
Symptom severity is not factored into endometriosis staging.
This article will explain the endometriosis staging system that healthcare providers most commonly use.
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It will explore how endometriosis affects fertility, plus the symptoms and complications that may occur.
It will also dig into treatments for this condition.
ASRM’s ranking guidelines are based on the physical presence of endometriosis, not on symptoms such as pain.
This system is point based.
It ranks the disease in stages 1 to 4.
Endometriosis is a progressive disease that can start as early as the teenage years.
In some instances, you may remain asymptomatic, despite the disease’s progression.
This can make getting an early diagnosis and treatment less likely to occur.
Untreated endometriosis can continue to spread, causing scarring, adhesions, and complications like infertility.
How Serious Is Stage 4 Endometriosis?
Stage 4 endometriosis isnot considered to be a fatal disease.
However, it can cause dangerous, life-threatening side effects, plus severely hamper your quality of life.
It can also make sex painful, hampering intimacy and relationships.
The burden of these symptoms can cause depression, anxiety, and isolation.
Inflammation, hormonal changes, and alterations to the pelvic environment are all thought to play a role.
In people with stage 4, physical barriers to conception also exist.
Pelvic adhesions in and around the fallopian tubes can block the transport of eggs.
Despite these obstacles,pregnancyis possible with endometriosis stage 4.
However, it may be challenging to achieve.
Conception may occur naturally, but the odds are not in your favor.
In most instances, medical treatments likein vitro fertilization (IVF)will be required.
Nausea, constipation, and diarrhea may also result.
If endometriosis grows on or in your bladder or bowel, you may need surgery to remove the lesions.
In some instances, this may require the removal of part of the organ, as well.
These complications can be worrisome, but what you shouldn’t spend time worrying about is cancer.
Asymptomatic Stage 4 Endo
Asymptomatic or silent endometriosis can occur at any stage.
Some people find out they have stage 4 endometriosis for the first time when they have trouble getting pregnant.
Testing for other conditions may also sometimes uncover evidence of endometriosis.
How Do You Know If You Have Stage 4 Endometriosis?
This imaging test can show clumps of tissue that may (or may not) be endometriosis.
Endometriomas and deeply embedded endometrial tissue in organs may also be visible.
Ultrasounds can be helpful but can’t be used to distinguish the composition of the tissues they see.
Risks of Untreated Stage 4 Endometriosis
Endometriosis can worsen if it’s not treated.
If you have symptoms like pain or overly heavy periods, starting treatment can make life easier.
The most likely risk of untreated stage 4 endo is infertility.
Endometriosis that spreads to external organs, while less likely, can also occur.
Surgery is often used to treat endo at stage 4.
There are several types your healthcare provider may recommend.
Surgery can be used to remove endometrial tissue from areas where it doesn’t belong.
However, surgical procedures provide only temporary relief.
Endometrial tissue typically grows back within several years.
During a laparoscopy, your surgeon will make several small incisions in your abdomen.
A thin, lighted tube with a camera on one end will be inserted through one incision.
Your surgeon will use this tube to view your pelvis and internal organs.
It also allows your surgeon to view and treat endometriosis in other organs within your abdomen.
During this procedure, your uterus will be surgically removed.
A hysterectomy may also include the removal of your ovaries (oophorectomy).
It also eliminates the possibility of pregnancy.
Does Medication Help Stage 4 Endometriosis?
Pain medication may be beneficial for alleviating pelvic pain, back pain, and menstrual cramps.
Your healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) medication, or prescribed drugs.
Hormonal therapy is sometimes offered as an alternative to surgery.
This treatment may be used to stop your body from producing too much estrogen and other ovulatory hormones.
Endometrial-like tissue outside of the uterus is affected by the hormonal fluctuations sparked by the menstrual cycle.
Pelvic floor physical therapy may also calm down painful urination, and make sex more comfortable.
Ongoing Management of Stage 4 Endometriosis
Endometriosis is not a one-size-fits-all disease.
How it affects you personally may also change as you age.
Endometrial-like tissue can return in the years following surgery.
If you notice a change in your symptoms, let a healthcare provider know.
They can work with you on the next steps, including hormonal therapy or subsequent surgery.
Emotional Support
Living and coping with endometriosis is bound to have its share of ups and downs.
Working with a therapist may be helpful.
You may also find great value in connecting with others who are going through what you’re going through.
Summary
Stage 4 endometriosis is the most severe form of this disease.
It is earmarked by large numbers of deep and superficial endometrial-like tissue growth inside the reproductive tract.
Other organs in the pelvic region and abdomen may also be affected.
Infertility is highly associated with stage 4 endo.
Other symptoms, such as pelvic pain and severe menstrual cramps, are also likely.
In some instances, stage 4 endometriosis may be asymptomatic and not cause pain.
Treatments for this condition include laparoscopic surgery and hormonal therapy.
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