Uterine Fibroids: Symptoms, Impact, and Diagnosis

In recent years, uterine fibroids have emerged as a disease with a high incidence rate. Although they are benign tumors, they can have a significant impact on women's health. Therefore, it is crucial to take uterine fibroids seriously and seek timely treatment. When uterine fibroids develop, the body may exhibit certain symptoms, which can help us determine if we have uterine fibroids. One common question is whether uterine fibroids can cause the abdomen to enlarge. Let's explore this and other related issues.

Can Uterine Fibroids Cause the Abdomen to Enlarge?

Whether uterine fibroids can cause the abdomen to enlarge depends on the specific circumstances. Uterine fibroids are a common benign condition in women, characterized by excessive growth of muscle fibers in the uterine muscle layer. The size, shape, and location of fibroids vary among individuals, leading to different manifestations. For instance, very small fibroids located under the uterine cavity mucosa may manifest as vaginal bleeding, and the uterus may not be palpable. In some cases, fibroids may only be detected through ultrasound. On the other hand, some people may feel a large mass in their abdomen, but without any symptoms such as bleeding, which may indicate a subserosal fibroid. Therefore, whether the abdomen enlarges due to uterine fibroids depends on the size and location of the fibroids. If the fibroids are large and located under the serosa, they may be detectable on the abdomen. However, if they are very small, they may go unnoticed.

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

1. The most common symptom of uterine fibroids is menstrual changes, manifesting as shortened menstrual cycles, increased menstrual flow, prolonged menstrual periods, and irregular vaginal bleeding.

2. Abdominal enlargement, along with a palpable mass in the lower abdomen and a feeling of heaviness or descent, should not be ignored. It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly to determine if uterine fibroids are present.

3. Increased vaginal discharge is another symptom of uterine fibroids. Sometimes, there may be a large amount of foul-smelling, bloody discharge accompanied by necrotic tissue. It is essential to pay attention to these symptoms.

4. Although most patients do not experience abdominal pain, they may have symptoms such as lower abdominal discomfort, backache, and pelvic discomfort. In rare cases, when the pedicle of a subserosal fibroid twists, it can cause acute abdominal pain accompanied by fever. These symptoms can usually be relieved with traditional Chinese medicine.

It is important to be aware of the symptoms of uterine fibroids and to seek medical attention promptly if any symptoms are present. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the condition and minimize its impact on women's health and quality of life.