An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms within or on an ovary. Most women develop an ovarian cyst at some time during their lives, however, these cysts typically disappear without treatment in two to three months and usually do not cause any discomfort. But, they can sometimes be the source of menstrual irregularities, pelvic pain, abdominal heaviness, pain during bowel movements, nausea, vomiting, and — in extreme cases — sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain, or pain accompanied by fever or vomiting that requires immediate medical attention. 

Functional cysts account for the majority of ovarian cysts that develop during the normal course of a woman’s menstrual cycle. There are two types of functional cysts: a follicular cyst starts when an egg is not released from the follicle and instead grows into a cyst; a corpus luteum cyst develops after the follicle releases an egg, but fluid then accumulates inside the follicle causing it to become a cyst. Other cysts not related to the menstrual cycle include dermoid cysts, cystadenomas and endometriomas. 

Ovarian cysts may be found during a pelvic exam and then identified by performing a pregnancy test, pelvic ultrasound, laparoscopy, or cancer antigen blood test. Treatment will depend on the woman’s age, symptoms, and size and composition of the cyst. Options may include watching the cyst to see if it goes away on its own, birth control pills to reduce the chance of developing new cysts in future menstrual cycles, or surgery to remove a cyst if it is large, growing, doesn’t appear to be a functional cyst, or remains through several menstrual cycles. 

For more information about ovarian cysts, talk with your doctor or call the free physician referral line at Doctors Hospital at White Rock Lake at 800-887-2525 to find an obstetrician/gynecologist near you.

Doctors Hospital at White Rock Lake
9400 Poppy Drive
Dallas, TX 75218
214-324-6100

www.doctorshospitaldallas.com

Do you ever wish that every day could be Thanksgiving? Think of all the delicious turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, tasty green bean casserole and mouth-watering pecan pie. While your mouth may be saying “Yes!” your waistline is calling out “Whoa!” — and for good reason. Thanksgiving can be a real challenge if you are watching your weight. But, you don’t have to sabotage your diet. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the buffet table without depriving yourself.

• Eat before you eat. — This may sound counterproductive, but if you eat a wholesome breakfast and lunch, you can avoid overeating Thanksgiving dinner later. 

• Go light on the calories. — Recipes can be healthier by making a few substitutions, such as fat-free chicken broth to make gravy or plain yogurt in casseroles. 

• One size doesn't fit all. — Avoid the all-you-can-eat mentality and limit yourself to smaller portions if you cannot control the ingredients used in a dish. 

• Don’t cover your whole plate. — There’s no need to pile your plate high with every food that is offered. Look over the buffet table first and then make your selections. 

• Eat s-l-o-w-l-y. — By savoring and chewing every bite thoroughly and putting your eating utensil down between bites you can enjoy your meal and be satisfied with one plate of food.

• Go for some fresh air. — Spread out the food and fun by going for a walk after your main meal and then having dessert later.

Remember to try not to be overly hard on yourself if you overeat. Thanksgiving is, after all, just one day and you can be careful about what you eat over the next few days, exercising enough to balance your overindulgence. For some tips on how to produce a festive meal you will be happy to serve on Thanksgiving Day, visit doctorshospitaldallas.com/thanksgiving.

Doctors Hospital at White Rock Lake
9400 Poppy Drive
Dallas, TX 75218
214 324-6100

www.doctorshospitaldallas.com