July 26, 2008

Endometriosis

What you see in the picture is chocolate-endometriosis or chocolate cyst. It was taken from my uterus 3 years ago. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrial stroma and glands, which should only be located inside the uterus) is found elsewhere in the body.

Endometriosis lesions can be found anywhere in the pelvic cavity: on the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, and on the pelvic sidewall. Other common sites include the uterosacral ligaments, the cul-de-sac, the Pouch of Douglas, and in the rectal-vaginal septum. In addition, it can be found in caecarian-section scars, laparoscopy or laparotomy scars, and on the bladder, bowel, intestines, colon, appendix, and rectum. But these locations are not so common. In even more rare cases, endometriosis has been found inside the vagina, inside the bladder, on the skin, even in the lung, spine, and brain.

The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. The pain often correlates to the menstrual cycle, but a woman with endometriosis may also experience pain that doesn’t correlate to her cycle. For many women, the pain of endometriosis is so severe and debilitating that it impacts their lives in significant ways. Endometriosis can also cause scar tissue and adhesions to develop that can distort a woman’s internal anatomy. In advanced stages, internal organs may fuse together, causing a condition known as a "frozen pelvis." It is estimated that 30-40% of women with endometriosis may not be able to have children. If you or someone you care about has endometriosis, it is important to research the disease as much as possible. Many myths and misconceptions about endometriosis still persist, even in medical literature. For many women, management of this disease may be a long-term process.

For further information you can go to www.endometriosis.org
Source: www.endometriosis.org

Fibroadenoma or Fibrocystic Breast



Let me introduce you to Fibroadenomas. The picture you see is a fibroadenoma. It was taken from me 10 years ago.

What is Fibroadenoma?
These are solid, non-cancerous tumors that often occur in women during their reproductive years. A fibroadenoma is a firm, smooth, rubbery lump with a well-defined shape. It will move under your skin when touched and is usually painless. Over time, fibroadenomas may grow larger or smaller or even disappear completely. Although your doctor can usually identify a fibroadenoma during a clinical exam, a small tissue sample is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

What are the symptoms?
If you have fibrocystic breasts, you may notice the symptoms right before your menstrual period. They probably get better by the time your period ends. You may find that: Your breasts are swollen. They feel tender or painful. Women often describe this as a dull or aching pain, heaviness, or soreness. Your breasts feel lumpy. Your doctor may call this "generalized breast lumpiness." Lumpy (cystic) areas feel thick. You may have one or more lumps that are always in the same area and that grow and shrink with each menstrual cycle. The lumps move if you push on them. (A lump that is cancer usually does not move but feels stuck to your ribs.) Symptoms can be on one or both sides, and can reach up to and under the armpit. Many women first notice fibrocystic breast changes in their 30s. At this age, your hormone levels start to vary more than before.

How are fibrocystic breast changes diagnosed?
If you notice a new breast lump, wait through one menstrual cycle. If it is still there after your period, see your doctor for a breast exam. If you are not having menstrual periods, see your doctor for a breast exam as soon as you notice a new lump. To diagnose fibrocystic breast changes, your doctor will do a breast exam and ask when you had your last period. If your doctor needs more information, you may have a mammogram, ultrasound, or needle biopsy. Your doctor can teach you how to check your breasts at home. When you know what’s normal for you, you’re better able to notice changes and know when to get help early instead of waiting for your next checkup. A self-exam is not a substitute for a mammogram or a clinical breast exam.

Source: health.yahoo.com
July 11, 2008

Thankful

"When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive - to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love." (by Steve Maraboli)

Your life is beautiful. Each time I wake up, I give thanks for the new day, the new spirit, and the new opportunity to make it a better day. to be thankful is easy, try it!
July 05, 2008

Favorite Quote




This is my favorite quote:
"Why worry when you can pray?"

In times of trouble, this quote brings me faith and hope.