Navigating endometriosis: The story of Neriza Banggawan’s battle and triumph

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UAE, Jan 9: Six years ago, Neriza Imatong Banggawan received a diagnosis of endometriosis, completely unaware of the profound impact this debilitating disease would eventually have on her well-being. In 2017, she underwent surgery after the discovery of a small cyst on her left ovary.

Following the procedure, Banggawan neglected follow-up checkups. Two years later, she began to endure intense back pain, particularly during her menstrual cycles. Living in the UAE since 2010, the Filipina found herself dreading her periods, marked by excruciating pain, a swollen abdomen, nausea, and vomiting.

After enduring the pain for an extended period, Banggawan sought medical help at Burjeel Medical City, where she learned that endometriosis had significantly impacted her health. Dr. Sandesh Kade, a gynecologist surgeon specializing in laparoscopic, endometriosis, and pelvic floor repair surgeries, revealed that her condition had progressed to the point where she faced the imminent loss of one of her kidneys and a section of her bowel.

“Endometriosis: Unraveling a Silent Menace – A Tale of Diagnosis, Intervention, and Hope”

In-depth Content: Endometriosis, a widespread chronic condition affecting millions of women globally, manifests when tissue resembling the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It’s a full-body ailment, commonly impacting pelvic organs, the pouch of Douglas, bowel, and bladder.

Unfortunately, for Neriza Imatong Banggawan, delayed diagnosis allowed ovarian endometriosis to wreak havoc unchecked. Dr. Sandesh Kade, a specialist in laparoscopic surgeries, revealed the severity of the situation – her left kidney and multiple bowel sites were significantly affected.

The six-hour laparoscopic procedure, involving collaboration among urologists, gynecologists, and gastrointestinal surgeons, became imperative. Dr. Kade meticulously removed adhesions, excised endometriosis from various pelvic sites, and preserved Banggawan’s fertility by removing the affected fallopian tube and ovary.

Dr. Maciej Szwedowski, urology consultant, addressed the damaged left kidney, emphasizing that despite treatment, it wouldn’t regain functionality. Dr. Ali Iyoob Valiyaveettil, head of gastrointestinal surgery, tackled endometriosis-affected areas in the bowel, skillfully avoiding the need for a colostomy.

With her uterus and one ovary preserved, Banggawan has the possibility of planning for future children. Her post-surgery recovery involves regular check-ups, scans, and MRIs. Banggawan, now pain-free, advocates for timely diagnosis and treatment, urging women not to ignore painful periods.

Dr. Kade emphasizes the challenge of diagnosing endometriosis promptly, stressing the importance of early detection to prevent organ damage. Ignorance and societal pressure contribute to delayed diagnosis, underscoring the need for increased awareness and medical intervention in cases of prolonged period pain.

This news has been read 2117 times!