Symptoms of endometriosis include pain during periods as well as discomfort when going to the bathroom or having intercourse. Another common symptom, heavy bleeding during your period, may lead to dizziness. Treatments are available for both endometriosis and secondary symptoms like lightheadness, but always seek help from you gynecologist or general practitioner to confirm the diagnosis and the treatment.
Endometriosis
The tissue that lines your uterus, endometrium, promotes fetal development during pregnancy. Normally, your body disposes of this uterine growth each month during your period, and new tissue grows until the next monthly discharge. But for women with endometriosis, the tissue grows outside the uterus as well as -- or instead of -- inside, thickening and building up within your pelvic region. In some cases, the buildup of tissue interferes with pregnancy. MayoClinic.com reports that as many as half of women with endometriosis experience fertility problems.
Dizziness
While dizziness isn't a symptom in every case of endometriosis, it's not uncommon for women with the condition to experience it. According to the University of Florida's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, conditions like endometriosis that include heavy bleeding can cause anemia due to the iron lost during heavy menstruation. Other secondary side effects of this blood loss include muscle weakness, fatigue and shortness of breath.
Primary Treatment
The most obvious way to treat the dizziness associated with excessive blood loss is to address the endometriosis itself. Options include hormone therapy or surgery to remove the scar tissue and other endometrial growths, notes MayoClinic.com. Surgery may be traditional or laparoscopic, depending on the location and extent of the growths. A hysterectomy is the most aggressive approach, and should be reserved for the most extreme cases, especially if you wish to become pregnant.
Secondary Treatment
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia associated with heavy bleeding during menstruation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. To counteract the lightheadedness and weakness of this secondary condition, your doctor may prescribe iron supplements. She may also prescribe extra vitamin C, which helps your body absorb iron. Foods with iron include liver and other red meats, blackstrap molasses, collard greens, almonds and brewer's yeast. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits and juice, cauliflower, broccoli and tomatoes.
Considerations
Never self-diagnose your conditions, and avoid using supplements or home remedies without consulting your physician first. Your doctor can determine if your dizziness is related to endometriosis, or if you may have a different condition. Additional causes of heavy blood loss and dizziness include polyps, uterine fibroids, uterine cancer, hyperplasia and adenomyosis. It's crucial to consult a doctor in order to begin the proper course of treatment for your condition.
