Ella Henderson, the former X Factor star, has revealed a diagnosis that she claims has “validated” her years of suffering.
Ella Henderson has revealed her diagnosis with endometriosis, calling it both “devastating” and “validating” after years of unexplained pain. The 29-year-old X Factor alum shared the news on Instagram, opening up about the emotional and physical toll of the condition that left her doubting her own reality.
The NHS defines Endometriosis as “a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of it, most commonly in the pelvis, around the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and lining of the pelvis. This misplaced tissue can cause inflammation, pain, and potentially fertility issue.”
The Ghost singer acknowledged in a video that revealed her diagnosis that “the past few years have been a bit of a rollercoaster, to say the least, behind the scenes and I’ve really been struggling… with not only stomach bloating and physical pain and mental health, because at one point I thought all this pain was in my head and I wasn’t really believed.”
After years of dealing with confusing and challenging health issues like stomach bloating, bowel pain, and heavy periods, she finally received a diagnosis in January.
I was given the official diagnosis of endometriosis in January of this year, along with countless GP appointments that resulted in scans, tests, and the impression that the pain was all in my head.
Both the bladder and bowel were affected by severe endometriosis and scarring behind her uterus after a laparoscopy.
Endometriosis occurs when cells similar to those found in the womb are found elsewhere in the body, Ella continued, “For those who are unfamiliar with this condition (just like I was only months ago).”
Henderson found comfort in knowing the source of her suffering despite having trouble hearing it: “The diagnosis was difficult to swallow but feels valid and empowering on the other hand. After all, it meant I wasn’t thinking about things and could finally find a way to move forward and take control of my body.
She also cited the larger issue, noting how many people wait for answers by saying, “My long journey to endometriosis is not unique. For many of you, this can take an enormous mental and physical toll on you, as it typically takes up to nine years in the UK.
Ella was open about the psychological effects of living in periods of depression, isolation, and anxiety. I might have been spared if my endometriosis symptoms had been identified sooner.
She’s already had significantly better symptoms after having surgery. She emphasized, however, that her treatment will continue and that management is not a cure.
Although it took a while (like many other women out there), it gave me the opportunity to receive appropriate and transformative support.
“Which, in my case, was surgery,” which has so far significantly reduced my symptoms. Unfortunately, endometriosis is not actually treatable, she continued, adding that ongoing management is likely to be a part of my life, whether through lifestyle modifications, pain management, or other treatments.
Fans and other celebrities praised Ella for being “brave” for sharing her diagnosis in her post.
Source: Mirror
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