What are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are small fluid filled collections formed either on the surface of the ovaries or under their surface. This is a very common condition among women but usually they are harmless. However, in some cases, they can grow and or even twist on themselves, when it becomes an emergency.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Most cases of ovarian cysts are asymptomatic, however, some might present with the following:
- Pelvic pain
- Bloating
- Sensation of heaviness in your lower abdomen
There are some particular symptoms related to the most serious complications of ovarian cysts, their rupture, and include:
- Sudden and severe abdominal pain
- High fever
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shock symptoms like weakness, cold and clammy skin and rapid breathing and heart rate
If you or anyone close to you suffering for ovarian cysts suddenly presents any of these symptoms,
Ovarian Cysts Diagnosis
Ovarian cysts are usually found during a routine pelvic exam, and depending on symptoms and on the characteristics of the cysts, your doctor will recommend some additional imaging studies in the form of an ultrasound scan and blood tests, to determine the cysts type and the type of treatment you will require.
Ovarian Cysts Treatment
The treatment of ovarian cysts depends on the type of cysts you have, your medical condition and the symptoms you have shown. In any case, there are some different treatment options that your doctor will suggest.
– Close Follow-Up
In case you have a simple and small cyst, and show no symptoms or just mild symptoms, your doctor will recommend some regular pelvic ultrasounds and medical follow-ups to monitor the possible changes in your cyst.
– Medication
As a form to control the cyst growth and to avoid new ovarian cysts formation, your doctor may recommend a combined dose of hormonal contraceptives. Also, if you show some discomfort, anti-inflammatories maybe helpful too.
– Surgery
In case you have a large cyst or if it looks like a complicated type of cyst, causes severe symptoms or shows significant growth during the follow-up, your doctor will suggest a surgical procedure in order to remove the cysts. In some cases, removing only the cysts is possible but in others, removing the affected ovary completely might be necessary.
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