What Are Fibroids?
7. Coexisting Disorders
There may be some coexisting disorders with uterine fibroids. When it causes heavy bleeding, it can cause anemia and iron deficiency. Patients with these issues are generally pale and tired. A complete blood count (CBC) can easily determine if anemia is present. Large fibroids can cause pressure effects such as abdominal bloating and constipation.
This is due to the pressure exerted by the fibroid on the rectum. A large fibroid also increases intraabdominal pressure. Compression of the ureter (tube connecting the kidneys and bladder) can result in hydronephrosis (dilation of the kidneys due to backflow of urine). Fibroids can also occur concurrently with endometriosis and adenomyosis. In rare cases, cancerous growths may occur.
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