Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that affect millions of American women. These non-cancerous growths can cause numerous frustrating symptoms, including heavy bleeding, discomfort during intercourse, incontinence, and more. Your symptoms will vary according to the number of tumors you have, as well as their size and location. Moreover, if your tumor is very tiny, or you are in menopause, you might not notice any symptoms, which sometimes causes a delay in the diagnosis. However, by understanding the numerous risk factors for Miami fibroids, you can take proper measures to avoid the development of uterine fibroids. Here are some common risk factors.
- Having a Condition Associated with High Estrogen
Studies associate the development of uterine fibroids with abnormally high levels of estrogen. Therefore, the risk of developing fibroids is greater in women with an underlying condition associated with increased estrogen levels like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and insulin resistance. Other health concerns might also result in high estrogen, so consult your physician if you are worried about your fibroids’ risk.
- Consuming A Diet Rich in Dairy and Meat
Eating dairy and meat products increases the levels of estrogen that your body generates. Once you consume these foods consistently over time, your estrogen levels stay high, and your likelihood of developing fibroids or existing fibroids worsening increases.
Specialists are still studying the correlation between fibroid and diet. However, these professionals believe that plant-based and whole (unprocessed) foods can help regulate your hormones and maintain your estrogen levels in a healthy range. Therefore, women at risk of developing fibroids should invest in a diet rich in vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, starches, and legumes.
- Being Obese or Overweight
If you are obese or overweight, your likelihood of developing uterine fibroids is higher than for women in a healthy weight range. The danger is highest in women who have the additional weight as abdominal visceral fat.
Your fat cells generate estrogen. Thus, when you are obese or overweight, your body generates even more estrogen. Specialists believe that this increased estrogen production causes lasting, mild swelling, which causes tumors to develop, including fibroids and, sometimes, breast cancer tumors.
- Having Hypertension
Women who struggle with chronic hypertension are at a higher risk of developing uterine fibroids. Specialists believe this correlation exists because having chronic high blood pressure damages your arteries and other blood vessels.
With time, chronic hypertension triggers an increase in the development of smooth and vascular muscle cells to try and correct the damage. Fibroids are smooth muscle tumors, making most professionals believe hypertension can contribute to their development.
- Family History
If your parent, sibling, grandparent, or another close relative has uterine fibroids, you are also at a greater risk of developing the condition. Unfortunately, you cannot change your family history. Nonetheless, adjusting your diet, exercising regularly, healthy weight management, and managing any underlying health concerns can help you better manage your risk for fibroids.
Although you cannot entirely eliminate your risk of developing uterine fibroids, you could lower it by understanding your risk factors and taking measures to control them. Besides, even if you eventually develop uterine fibroids, you do not have to live with your fibroid discomfort. Immediately you identify a warning sign of fibroids, consult your specialist for a professional diagnosis and tailored care plan. There are numerous treatments you can explore to address your issue. Besides surgery, you can access less intrusive care solutions like uterine fibroid embolization.
