Featured
Do you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? If so, then you are likely familiar with the common symptoms associated with it. But did you know that PCOS is linked to a variety of other conditions as well? From hypothyroidism to cardiovascular disease, there’s a lot more going on than purely concerns with your menstrual cycle or fertility problems. In this post, we’ll explore three other health conditions that could potentially be a result of PCOS and provide tips on how to manage them.
Contents
Health conditions that could potentially be a result of PCOS
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is unable to produce enough hormones to maintain healthy bodily functions, and if left untreated can lead to serious health issues. Commonly experienced symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, constipation, dry skin and muscle cramps. Hypothyroidism can worsen PCOS symptoms.
While some people may experience only a few mild symptoms on and off over time, it’s important to check with your doctor right away if you notice any erratic changes that are concerning. Early detection allows for quicker treatment and better management of the condition so that you can feel your best over the long-term.
Cardiovascular disease
When you have PCOS, you may experience conditions like insulin resistance (which increases your chance of getting type 2 diabetes) or obesity that can lead to increased levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in your body. These, in turn, can increase your risk of developing heart conditions such as hypertension and arterial stiffness due to the narrowing of blood vessels.
To try and combat that, consider lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and exercising regularly. This can help manage the symptoms associated with PCOS and reduce one’s risk of developing cardiovascular diseases by lowering their blood pressure and improving overall glucose metabolism.
Mental health issues
Attention to our mental health is always important, but even more so when we are dealing with a physical condition like PCOS. This chronic physical disorder can have a serious impact on mental health because of the many ways it affects our daily lives. Many women with PCOS may experience depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders as a result of their physical concerns.
It’s essential to understand the links between these two components of wellbeing, and seek out necessary support if you experience any of these psychological issues alongside your PCOS. Professional help is available – whether through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), counselling, medication or alternative treatments – so do not suffer silently. Taking care of both your physical and mental health in tandem is key for managing a chronic health condition.
Conclusion
Having PCOS can be a lot to manage, but it is important to pay attention to new or suspicious symptoms, so you can detect any associated health concerns early. Remember that physical health is connected to mental health, so take care of all aspects of your wellbeing.
If you are struggling with any other health issues due to PCOS, make sure to reach out for professional help and support. Taking the steps now will set you up for better overall health in the future.
