How is PCOS Diagnosed: There is no single test that on it's own diagnoses PCOS and commonly it is diagnosed based on your symptoms and several possibly investigations, such as: 1. High Androgen levels on bloodwork or hormone urine testing – this includes testosterone and DHT (dihydrotestosterone) levels.
You may also need an ultrasound scan, which can show whether you have a high number of follicles in your ovaries (polycystic ovaries). The follicles are fluid-filled sacs in which eggs develop. You may also need a blood test to measure your hormone levels and screen for diabetes or high cholesterol.
The most common causes of dizziness are:
Low blood sugar level (hypoglycaemia) – which is usually seen in people with diabetes but can also affect those with PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), or PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).
While a urine test cannot directly diagnose a complex ovarian cyst, it can rule out other urinary issues that may be causing similar pelvic pain. Diagnosing ovarian cysts usually involves imaging such as an ultrasound. This method shows the cyst's size and details.
PCOS and Bladder Problems
There are a variety of reasons why women with PCOS may experience bladder issues and urinary incontinence. Many women also have unusually high testosterone levels and it is thought that these high testosterone levels could be contributing towards bladder issues.
There is no single test that on it's own diagnoses PCOS and commonly it is diagnosed based on your symptoms and several possibly investigations, such as: 1. High Androgen levels on bloodwork or hormone urine testing – this includes testosterone and DHT (dihydrotestosterone) levels.
Key Points about PCOS
PCOS can cause missed or irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, infertility, and weight gain. Women with PCOS may be at higher risk for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, and endometrial cancer.
The 1-2-3 rule is a simple aide-mémoire describing the nomenclature of any small simple anechoic cystic appearing structure within an ovary on ultrasound: <1 cm = follicle. 1-2 cm = dominant follicle. >3 cm = cyst.
Early Warning Signs of Ovarian Cysts
A ruptured ovarian cyst may cause vaginal bleeding. This may result in pink or brown discharge.
Women suffering from PCOS have one thing in common - exhaustion. Most of the women feel they are so exhausted they can't even do the bare minimum. They experience constant feelings of drowsiness, especially during their heavy bleeding periods.
PCOS is a diagnosis of exclusion and is a multiorgan disease affecting most endocrine organs including ovaries, adrenals, pituitary, fat cells, and endocrine pancreas. The manifestations of PCOS are diverse, and up to 50% patients are normal weight.
For many women, PCOS doesn't feel the same every day. Not every woman with PCOS experiences “flare-ups” in the same way, but many describe them as times when symptoms become more noticeable or harder to manage, like breakouts, heavier hair shedding, mood swings or a particularly irregular cycle.
Consider the following in the differential diagnosis of PCOS:
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition where you have few, unusual or very long periods. It often results in having too much of a male hormone called androgen. Many small sacs of fluid develop on the ovaries. They may fail to regularly release eggs.
If you leave PCOS untreated, the syndrome's symptoms will not only worsen, but you may put yourself at greater risk of developing serious conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and endometrial cancer. PCOS itself is not life-threatening, but it can lead to life-threatening complications.
Symptoms of an ovarian cyst
Larger ovarian cysts can cause you to need to urinate more frequently or have difficulty emptying your bladder. You might also feel pressure during bowel movements and have more trouble passing stools.
A ruptured or burst ovarian cyst typically feels like sudden, sharp pain in your pelvis (typically lower and off to the side). The pain is often intense and severe.
Management of ovarian cysts (non emergency)
These are usually physiological and will typically resolve within 3 menstrual cycles. Premenopausal women with 5-7cm sized simple ovarian cysts should be offered routine interval ultrasound scan follow up (3-6 monthly) to monitor cyst size and resolution.
Large or persistent ovarian cysts, or cysts that are causing symptoms, usually need to be surgically removed. Surgery is also normally recommended if there are concerns that the cyst could be cancerous or could become cancerous.
These cysts occur when blood vessels within the cyst walls rupture, causing bleeding into the cyst. This process can lead to discomfort and pain, affecting a woman's overall well-being. The blood accumulated within the cyst can build pressure on surrounding tissues, potentially resulting in fatigue.
To help ease the effects of PCOS , try to:
Women with PCOS appear to be at increased risk for developing cancer of the endometrium (lining of the uterus) later in life. From your teens through menopause, all women experience a monthly buildup of the endometrial lining in the uterus, as the body prepares itself for the potential of a fertilized egg.
PCOS can also cause anxiety, depression and a negative body image. Some symptoms such as infertility, obesity and unwanted hair growth can lead to social stigma. This can affect other life areas such as family, relationships, work and involvement in the community.