Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop from the muscle tissue of the uterus. These growths can vary significantly in size, from nearly microscopic to masses large enough to fill the pelvis. While many women who have fibroids experience no symptoms at all, for others, the presence of these growths can lead to a generalized feeling of being unwell or “sick.” This systemic discomfort is typically an indirect result of the fibroids’ impact on the body.
Addressing Generalized Illness
The vague feeling of being sick often associated with fibroids stems from the chronic, systemic stress their symptoms place on the body. This can manifest as persistent fatigue, a general sense of malaise, or a feeling of being run down. Up to 63% of symptomatic women report experiencing this kind of weariness or fatigue.
This generalized discomfort is a persistent state of low energy and poor well-being. Occasional nausea or generalized abdominal discomfort can also contribute to this feeling of sickness. The constant physical and mental toll of managing other fibroid symptoms contributes significantly to this chronic, non-specific ill feeling.
Anemia and Its Impact on Well-being
The most common mechanism by which fibroids cause systemic sickness is through heavy menstrual bleeding, a condition known as menorrhagia. Fibroids, particularly those that protrude into the uterine cavity, can enlarge the surface area of the uterine lining, leading to excessive blood loss. This chronic loss of blood volume results in iron-deficiency anemia, which is a reduction in the body’s ability to transport oxygen.
Iron is necessary to produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen to tissues and organs. When iron stores are depleted faster than they can be replenished, the resulting oxygen deficit causes physical effects. Symptoms of anemia include extreme fatigue, physical weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and pallor, all of which contribute to the feeling of being chronically unwell. Even mild cases of anemia can lead to a decrease in exercise tolerance and overall energy levels.
Pressure Effects and Digestive Disruption
Aside from the chemical imbalance caused by anemia, the physical bulk of large or numerous fibroids can directly interfere with the function of neighboring organs. The uterus sits in the pelvic cavity, surrounded by the bladder in front and the rectum and colon in the back. Fibroids growing on the outer wall of the uterus can press against these structures, creating uncomfortable symptoms.
Pressure on the bladder often leads to urinary frequency, an increased urge to urinate, or difficulty emptying the bladder completely. Frequent trips to the bathroom, especially at night, interrupt sleep cycles, which contributes to daytime fatigue and the overall feeling of being sick. Similarly, compression of the digestive tract can result in constipation, bloating, and a constant feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen. These digestive disruptions can cause abdominal discomfort and contribute to a feeling of general internal unrest.
When to Seek Professional Evaluation
If you are experiencing persistent fatigue, heavy bleeding, or pelvic discomfort, seek a medical evaluation. You should consult a healthcare provider if your menstrual bleeding is heavy enough to soak through a pad or tampon in less than one hour for several consecutive hours. Other concerning symptoms include severe pelvic pain that is sudden or worsening, or signs of severe anemia like extreme weakness, lightheadedness, or shortness of breath.
Diagnosis of fibroids involves a pelvic examination followed by imaging, usually an ultrasound, to visualize the size and location of the growths. Blood work, specifically a complete blood count, will be ordered to check your hemoglobin and hematocrit levels to determine if anemia is present. Identifying the root cause of the symptoms is the first step toward finding appropriate management and improving your quality of life.