Archives 2026

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Why Some Fibroids Cause Pain While Others Don’t

Uterine fibroids are a common condition among women during their reproductive years. Fibroids are noncancerous growths. They can cause unwanted symptoms, including heavy periods, painful cycles, and frequent urination. They can also cause constipation, lower back pain, pain during intercourse, and pelvic pressure. Each person experiences fibroids differently. Below you will find more information on why some fibroids cause pain while others don’t.

Why Some Fibroids Cause Pain While Others Don’t

Some women with fibroids experience pain and discomfort. However, others do not experience the same symptoms. Understanding why some fibroids cause pain and others do not is important. It can help you recognize when to seek evaluation and treatment for the issue.

Pain-Free Fibroids

Not all fibroids are the same, as they can vary in size, number, and location within the uterus. Factors such as genetics, hormone levels, and individual sensitivity can also impact pain levels. This is why some people experience pain, and others do not.

Small fibroids that remain within the uterine wall are often painless. Patients who do not experience painful fibroids do not even know they have them. It is often only revealed during a routine exam. This is true even if they experience other symptoms. This is because they can only be detected with a pelvic exam or imaging.

Fibroids that Cause Pain

On the other hand, some women experience severe pain and discomfort. Pain and pressure are more likely when fibroids are large. They can also cause these symptoms if they are pressing on nearby nerves, tissues, or organs. Certain types of fibroids can press against the bladder, the pelvic wall, or the rectum. This leads to discomfort and pressure. Other types expand within the uterine wall. This increases muscle tension, leading to cramps and aches.

Fibroids can also outgrow their blood supply. The process, known as degeneration, triggers inflammation and pain. The pain can be sudden and sharp, which is extremely difficult to manage on a daily basis. Fibroids can also twist and cut off circulation to the area. This can lead to acute pain that is also difficult to manage without treatment.

When to Seek Medical Care

Fibroid symptoms can impact your overall quality of life. If this is the case, it is time to seek treatment from a fibroid specialist. Symptoms that indicate you need an evaluation include persistent or worsening pelvic pain. This is especially significant if it interferes with your daily activities. Work, school, and your social commitments should not be impacted by the pain or discomfort caused by fibroids. Other concerning symptoms include heavy or long menstrual cycles. When this leads to fatigue or anemia, prompt evaluation and treatment are necessary.

A skilled and experienced fibroid specialist can evaluate your symptoms. When you meet with the specialist, describe the symptoms you experience. Include when, how often, and how severe they are to provide a full picture of your condition. A customized treatment plan based on your unique symptoms will be created. This may include lifestyle modifications, medication, or minimally invasive procedures. More severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Getting treatment from a professional is the best way to manage your symptoms and your health. Ongoing care may be necessary due to the nature of fibroids. Stay consistent with your fibroid specialist to effectively manage the condition. This can dramatically improve your overall quality of life.

Top Fibroid Specialist

Fibroids can make daily life difficult due to the pain and other unwanted symptoms. If you need treatment, contact the team at ProFibroidMD today to schedule your appointment!

What to Expect During a Nuclear Cardiology Test

A nuclear cardiology test is a type of stress test that uses nuclear cardiac imaging in conjunction with stress testing to improve the detection of coronary artery blockages. This type of test uses radioactive material to show how well blood flows into the heart muscle during physical activity and when at rest.

Nuclear cardiology is also known as a stress cardiolite study or a nuclear stress test. The test is safe, captures images of your heart, and can produce images that provide doctors with health information.

An Overview of a Nuclear Cardiology Test

A nuclear cardiology test involves an injection of a short-acting radioactive substance before and during treadmill exercise. Afterward, the patient lies beneath a “gamma” camera while a computer collects data. A detailed image of the heart is then created, allowing cardiologists to detect any coronary artery blockages by recognizing past and potential future heart muscle damage.

The small amount of radioactive tracing material is injected into the patient’s veins and filtered through the heart. A minuscule camera captures images and videos of the heart to detect any spots or signs of coronary heart disease. Imaging may also detect any potential issues with heart function.

How Nuclear Cardiology Tests Are Performed

Nuclear cardiology tests are performed in stages, according to the National Library of Medicine. The stages consist of:

  1. An intravenous (IV) line is started.
  2. A radioactive substance is injected into one of your veins.
  3. You lie down and rest for 15 to 45 minutes while a special camera scans your body.
  4. The camera scans your heart and creates pictures for doctors to dissect.
  5. Afterward, you will be asked to walk on a treadmill or stationary bicycle.
  6. You will walk slowly at first, but your doctor will ask you to walk faster and at an incline.
  7. Blood pressure and heart rhythm are monitored during this process.
  8. After 15 to 45 minutes, a radioactive substance is once again injected into one of your veins.
  9. A camera will monitor the substance again, scanning the heart and creating pictures.

Doctors will then compare the two images to determine whether there are differences between a slowed and a fast heartbeat. This allows doctors to examine heart rate, blood pressure, and other cardiovascular issues.

More importantly, the results of a nuclear stress test can do the following:

  • Determine the proper treatment for coronary heart disease
  • Examine whether your heart is too large or small
  • Diagnose coronary artery disease
  • Determine how well your heart pumps blood

Doctors perform the test to see if your heart receives enough oxygen and blood flow when it pumps harder. A treadmill or stationary bike can help force the heart to pump harder through increased exercise.

How a Nuclear Cardiology Test Feels

Before your test, you should prepare by wearing comfortable clothes and refraining from eating or drinking after midnight. Caffeine should be avoided for 24 hours before the test.

During the test, patients may feel the following:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Chest pain
  • Muscle cramps in the feet or legs
  • Nausea
  • Headache

In addition, your heart may beat much faster, giving you the feeling that it is racing. In rare instances, patients can experience palpitations, chest discomfort, and dizziness.

Take Part in a Nuclear Cardiology Test Today

For those of you experiencing unwanted cardiovascular issues, consider taking part in a nuclear cardiology test. With this test, cardiologists can assess your heart’s function and identify any health concerns.

At Apex Cardiology, we’re dedicated to improving our patients’ lives. Not only do we place importance on your individual needs, but we also use safe, efficient technology to better understand and identify cardiovascular health issues.