Summer BanksMenorrhagia
December 12th 2006 04:55
Menorrhagia :
Menorrhagia refers to an abnormally long or heavy menstrual flow, often accompanied by the passing of blood clots.
The condition, which is especially common in women in their late 30s and 40s, seldom indicates the existence of a serious disorder. However, it may result in a deficiency of the mineral iron (iron deficiency anemia).
Causes :
Menorrhagia is a common problem, often caused by a disturbance in the hormones controlling the menstrual cycle. It can also be caused by fibroid tumors in the uterus, inflammation of the pelvic region, and underactivity of the thyroid gland.
Diagnosis :
If abnormal menstrual flow continues or recurs or if there is any chance of pregnancy, a physician should be consulted. The physician may perform a number of tests to determine whether there is a serious underlying cause. Biopsy (removal of a small tissue sample for laboratory examination) of the cervix or the uterine lining may be performed to check for cancer or other abnormalities. The physician may also do a blood test to check for iron-deficiency anemia.
Treatment :
It is suggested that women who experience this disorder try to reduce their level of physical activity during menstruation and be sure to get enough iron so that they will not become anemic.
Hormones (estrogen and progesterone) may also be used to control heavy bleeding if the underlying problem is a hormonal disturbance. Hysterectomy may be necessary in severe cases that do not respond to estrogen therapy and in cases of extensive fibroid tumors.
Menorrhagia refers to an abnormally long or heavy menstrual flow, often accompanied by the passing of blood clots.
The condition, which is especially common in women in their late 30s and 40s, seldom indicates the existence of a serious disorder. However, it may result in a deficiency of the mineral iron (iron deficiency anemia).
Causes :
Menorrhagia is a common problem, often caused by a disturbance in the hormones controlling the menstrual cycle. It can also be caused by fibroid tumors in the uterus, inflammation of the pelvic region, and underactivity of the thyroid gland.
Diagnosis :
If abnormal menstrual flow continues or recurs or if there is any chance of pregnancy, a physician should be consulted. The physician may perform a number of tests to determine whether there is a serious underlying cause. Biopsy (removal of a small tissue sample for laboratory examination) of the cervix or the uterine lining may be performed to check for cancer or other abnormalities. The physician may also do a blood test to check for iron-deficiency anemia.
Treatment :
It is suggested that women who experience this disorder try to reduce their level of physical activity during menstruation and be sure to get enough iron so that they will not become anemic.
Hormones (estrogen and progesterone) may also be used to control heavy bleeding if the underlying problem is a hormonal disturbance. Hysterectomy may be necessary in severe cases that do not respond to estrogen therapy and in cases of extensive fibroid tumors.
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