Endometriosis is often associated with symptoms like chronic pelvic pain and infertility. But these are far from the only symptoms you might experience.
Uncommon symptoms aren’t necessarily unlikely. Instead, this shows that researchers haven’t studied these symptoms as extensively.
Getting to know how your body usually feels and the level of pain or symptoms you usually have can help you identify unusual or unexpected changes.
Tracking your symptoms can also help a doctor or other healthcare professional make a diagnosis or recommend treatment.
Results of a 2018 study indicate that most women with endometriosis experienced recurrent fatigue associated with pain, insomnia, depression, and occupational stress.
Variables, including age, the duration since the initial diagnosis, and the stage of the condition, did not appear to influence fatigue levels.
Pain related to endometriosis can extend beyond your pelvic region, potentially affecting areas such as your shoulders, chest, and lower back.
Neuropathic pain caused by nerve damage or dysfunction is also associated with endometriosis. It often feels like a tingling, burning, or shooting pain.
Research from 2017 indicates the rare possibility of endometriosis affecting the sciatic nerve. Its primary symptom is sciatica linked to the menstrual cycle, which can lead to nerve problems (neuropathy).
According to a 2021 study, a component resembling neuropathic pain may be present in a significant number of people with endometriosis.
Research from 2022 shows that people with endometriosis frequently reported lower urinary tract symptoms more often than those without the condition.
Common symptoms include:
- more frequent urination
- pain, burning, or other discomfort during urination
- sudden urge to urinate (even if you just went)
- a sensation of difficulty emptying the bladder fully
- urine that’s tinged with blood
You may also experience pain or discomfort during bowel movements. But this can vary depending on your specific type of endometriosis.
For example, rectovaginal endometriosis, where nodules affect your rectum, often leads to constipation, painful bowel movements, and rectal bleeding.
Older research from
Considering that severe acne is easy to observe, it could be a useful sign to identify endometriosis early.
Thoracic endometriosis is a rare form of endometriosis that can sometimes cause symptoms related to your chest and lungs, including shortness of breath and coughing up blood.
This condition occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows within your chest cavity, often affecting the lining of your lungs and other chest structures.
If you suspect you have endometriosis and experience any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation. Early detection can lead to more effective management and an improved quality of life.