Endometriosis usually appears in the pelvic region.
Diaphragmatic endometriosis affects about 0.2% to 1.5% of people with endometriosis.
This tissue is usually called patches or lesions.
Photo Composite by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
In addition to the typical symptoms of endometriosis, diaphragmatic endometriosis can affect the respiratory system.
Symptoms of Diaphragmatic Endometriosis
Only about 25% of people with diaphragmatic endometriosis experience obvious symptoms.
Most symptoms of diaphragmatic endometriosis can seem to be because of other factors.
This might be why the condition is likely to be diagnosed during surgery for standard endometriosis.
The most common way diaphragmatic endometriosis is found is duringlaparoscopic surgeryfor endometriosis.
Other ways to diagnose diaphragmatic endometriosis include:
Treatment
Treatment for diaphragmatic endometriosis depends on symptoms.
There is no cure for endometriosis.
However, lesions can be removed, and symptoms managed with medication.
When treated with surgery and continued hormonal treatment, diaphragmatic endometriosis symptoms can stop.
This could be because diaphragmatic endometriosis is more likely in people with already severe pelvic endometriosis.
Since treating diaphragmatic endometriosis includes hormone therapy, fertility can be affected by treatment.
Can Diaphragmatic Endometriosis Be Fatal?
There is no data to suggest that diaphragmatic endometriosis is fatal.
A diaphragmatic endometriosis is advised if you experience shoulder pain while having endometriosis.
Infertility during endometriosis is also a possible indicator of the disorder.
Summary
Diaphragmatic endometriosis is endometriosis that reaches the diaphragm, a muscle located beneath the lungs.
The condition might be genetic.
Treating diaphragmatic endometriosis usually requires monitoring symptoms while taking hormonal medications to reduce lesions.
If the condition begins to show obvious symptoms, surgery is usually recommended.
It’s advised to seek care as soon as diaphragmatic endometriosis symptoms occur.
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