Experiencing Ovarian Cyst Discomfort
Hello everyone, I’m currently dealing with a 5.1cm x 4.9cm x 4.8cm uncomplicated ovarian cyst located on my left ovary. It has thin walls and no fluid accumulation inside. An MRI has confirmed that there are no indications of torsion, as it rests on the fundus of my uterus. This cyst has grown to roughly the size of a lime and is leading to a variety of troubling symptoms. - I experience constant, dull pain in my left iliac fossa at a level of about 3-4 on the pain scale. - My menstrual cycle has been extremely heavy, accompanied by menorrhagia. - The pain makes it difficult to have bowel movements. - I find myself needing to urinate frequently. - Sleeping on either side has become impossible due to intensified pain, resulting in disrupted rest and hip discomfort from lack of movement during sleep. - I become satiated quickly, finding it difficult to eat. - Despite adhering to a calorie-restricted diet of 1600 calories per day, I have inexplicably gained 1.5 stone since November. - Engaging in sexual activity is too painful for me right now. - Walking for extended periods is also painful. - Additionally, I have been struggling with indigestion and acid reflux. Moreover, I also have a contraceptive implant that seems to have been misplaced within me and is past its efficacy. The medical team couldn’t locate it during an x-ray procedure, and there were issues regarding appointment records, though I had attended as scheduled. They suspect this missing implant may contribute to my cyst and hormonal fluctuations. Since I’m trying to conceive, I want it removed. I've been prescribed codeine phosphate for the pain, which has led to constipation, prompting me to take senna and buscopan for relief. Omeprazole has been given to manage my digestive discomfort and bloating. As a teacher, I’ve been absent from work for three weeks now, yet the NHS has deemed surgical intervention too risky relative to the potential benefits, significantly affecting my daily life. The medical professionals dismissed my cyst as "tiny and insignificant" and suggested the contraceptive pill to inhibit its growth, despite my wish to conceive. Their treatment options seem limited to pain management and a watchful waiting approach, with only the cyst being acknowledged as a diagnosis. Initially, I rushed to A&E when my symptoms resembled those of a ruptured cyst. I presented with chills, fever, and severe abdominal pain, giving me the impression that I might have experienced multiple cysts, one potentially rupturing, as I felt a popping sensation. However, the wait time was an exhausting 16 hours to see a consultant, leading me to leave and consult my GP instead, who I managed to see seven hours prior to my potential consultation at A&E. With unexpected weight gain, the suspected rupture of another cyst, and the presence of this significant cyst, I’m noticing unusual hair growth as well, indicating my hormones are out of balance. I often feel down, anxious, and experience mood swings, leading me to suspect a condition like PCOS or similar hormonal irregularities. I can't help but wonder why my cyst, which isn’t as large as others that seem to cause fewer symptoms, is resulting in such severe pain. I have a consultation lined up with a private gynecologist tomorrow, hoping for laparoscopic removal. It would be helpful to hear from anyone who might have insights into the extent of pain I’m experiencing. Thank you!
Answers (1)
4/2/2025, 10:30:49 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a lot of distressing symptoms due to your ovarian cyst, and I understand how frustrating this must be, especially as you try to manage the pain while also hoping to conceive. Your symptoms indicate significant discomfort, and it’s important to address them in a thoughtful way.
Main Points:
- Your ongoing pain and discomfort are concerning and can significantly affect your quality of life.
- Surgical intervention may be the best route to alleviate your symptoms, especially if you have a consultation with a gynecologist.
- Managing your symptoms and discussing hormonal balance will be essential until a more permanent solution is found.
Explanation:
Ovarian cysts can cause a range of symptoms, not just based on size but also on their location and the individual's body response. Even a cyst that isn't considered large by some medical standards can cause significant discomfort due to its position or the pressure it exerts on surrounding organs. The hormonal fluctuations you mentioned could also be playing a role in your symptoms, including weight gain and mood swings.
Given your complex situation with the misplaced contraceptive implant, it could be contributing to your hormonal imbalance, making it imperative to discuss removal with your gynecologist, particularly since you are trying to conceive.
Next Steps:
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Consultation Preparation: Make a list of all your symptoms, their severity, and how they affect your daily life to discuss with your gynecologist. Be sure to mention your desire for a laparoscopic removal and the hormonal concerns you have.
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Symptom Management Until Consultation:
- Continue taking Omeprazole to manage indigestion and acid reflux. Drink plenty of water to help with digestion and consult your GP if symptoms worsen.
- Use over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen (if suitable for you) alongside codeine. Ensure you're also managing constipation from codeine effectively with dietary fiber, hydration, and mild laxatives if needed.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your pain, menstrual cycle, and any changes in symptom severity to share with your healthcare provider. This will provide them with a clearer picture of what you're experiencing.
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Support & Well-being: Since you mentioned feeling down and anxious, consider reaching out to a mental health professional or joining a support group. This can provide emotional relief as you navigate this challenging time.
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Consider Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments: Although you've been following a calorie-restricted diet, ensure it includes a balance of nutrients that can help manage your symptoms, such as anti-inflammatory foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, omega-3 fatty acids). Regular light activity, as tolerated, might also help improve mood and reduce discomfort.
Ultimately, addressing these symptoms with your gynecologist is key, and I hope they can provide the support and intervention you need. Take care, and I'm here if you have further questions or need support.
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