[18F] With irregular periods and severe cramps

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female has been experiencing irregular periods that occur every 3-4 months since menarche. When they do occur, they last about 7-8 days and are heavy at the start, progressively getting lighter. The patient reports severe cramps located under the belly and sometimes in the lower back, which worsen when sitting up but are alleviated by drinking water. Additionally, the patient has acne but no excessive hair growth, darkening of the skin, or thinning hair. The patient has a history of ADHD and some breathing problems, both diagnosed at age 6. She is currently taking 10mg of melatonin every night and Advil (2 pills) about once a week. No known allergies or other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods, heavy bleeding, and acne. It is often associated with other symptoms like weight gain, excessive hair growth, and difficulty losing weight. However, not all symptoms need to be present for a diagnosis.
- Typical treatments: Treatment for PCOS often includes lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, medications to regulate menstrual cycles, and treatments for acne and other symptoms.
Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid can lead to irregular periods and other symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, and dry skin.
- Typical treatments: Treatment usually involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Primary Dysmenorrhea: This is a common cause of painful periods and cramps, especially in young women. It is not usually associated with any underlying medical condition.
- Typical treatments: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and heat application can help manage symptoms.
Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and irregular bleeding.
- Typical treatments: Treatment may include pain relief medications, hormonal therapies, and sometimes surgery.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:

Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help manage weight and improve overall health.
Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce cramps.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) can help manage cramps. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage.
Track Your Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your menstrual cycle, and note any changes. This information can be very helpful for your healthcare provider.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help alleviate cramps and improve overall well-being.

What you should look out for

It's important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Severe Pain: If your cramps become unbearable or significantly interfere with your daily activities.
Heavy Bleeding: If you experience very heavy bleeding that requires changing your pad or tampon every hour.
New Symptoms: If you develop new symptoms such as excessive hair growth, significant weight gain, or unusual fatigue.
No Improvement: If your symptoms do not improve with over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes.

Remember, while this information can be helpful, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

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6 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)