Endometriosis is often mistaken for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) because both conditions can cause bloating, abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhoea, and nausea.

However, health experts warn that when digestive symptoms repeatedly worsen around the menstrual cycle, the real cause may be a gynaecological condition rather than a gut disorder.

Medical professionals say this overlap is one of the key reasons why many women experience delayed diagnosis and treatment for endometriosis.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.

These growths can develop on:

• ovaries
• fallopian tubes
• pelvic lining
• bladder
• and even parts of the bowel or intestine

The condition can lead to:

• inflammation
• severe pelvic pain
• scar tissue formation
• fertility complications
• and digestive symptoms.

Why Endometriosis Is Commonly Misdiagnosed as IBS

According to experts, bowel-related symptoms appear because endometrial tissue can affect the pelvic region and nearby digestive organs.

As a result, women may initially receive treatment for IBS instead of the underlying condition.

Professor Sangeetha K from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Srinivas Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre says the symptom overlap often creates confusion during diagnosis.

Key Symptoms That May Point to Endometriosis Instead of IBS

1. Chronic Bloating (‘Endo Belly’)

Occasional bloating is common, but persistent bloating accompanied by:

• pelvic pain
• abdominal heaviness
• excessive gas

may indicate endometriosis.

Doctors say a major clue is timing.

If bloating:

• worsens before periods
• appears during menstruation
• or follows a monthly cycle

it may be hormonally linked rather than purely digestive.

2. Alternating Diarrhoea and Constipation

Changes in bowel habits are often associated with IBS.

However, in endometriosis:

• lesions may irritate the bowel
• pelvic inflammation may affect digestion
• symptoms often intensify around menstruation.

Unlike IBS, which may be triggered by stress or food, endometriosis-related symptoms often show a cyclical pattern.

3. Pain During Bowel Movements

Painful bowel movements — especially during periods — can be a major warning sign.

Experts say this may occur when endometrial tissue affects:

• the pelvic cavity
• rectum
• or lower bowel region.

Severe pain during defecation should not be dismissed as routine constipation or acidity.

4. Nausea and Vomiting Around Menstruation

Some women experience:

• nausea
• vomiting
• digestive discomfort

alongside worsening pelvic pain during the menstrual cycle.

Doctors say these symptoms may result from hormonal inflammation associated with endometriosis rather than a stomach infection or food intolerance.

Other Common Symptoms of Endometriosis

Apart from digestive symptoms, endometriosis may also cause:

• severe menstrual cramps
• heavy bleeding
• chronic pelvic pain
• lower back pain
• pain during intercourse
• fatigue
• fertility issues.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Experts stress that delayed diagnosis can lead to:

• worsening pain
• scar tissue formation
• fertility complications
• emotional stress
• and reduced quality of life.

Studies globally suggest many women live with symptoms for years before receiving a proper diagnosis.

How Endometriosis Is Diagnosed

Doctors may use:

• pelvic examinations
• ultrasound scans
• MRI imaging
• laparoscopy (minimally invasive surgery)

to confirm the condition.

Because symptoms overlap with digestive disorders, multidisciplinary evaluation is often necessary.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Experts recommend consulting a gynaecologist if:

• digestive symptoms repeatedly worsen around periods
• menstrual pain interferes with daily life
• over-the-counter treatments fail
• bloating becomes chronic
• or bowel pain becomes severe.

Endometriosis Awareness in India

Health experts estimate that Endometriosis affects millions of women in India, though awareness and diagnosis rates remain relatively low.

Doctors say recognising symptom patterns — especially those linked to menstruation — is critical for early intervention and better treatment outcomes.

Health experts are raising concerns over the growing habit of self-medication in India, especially the frequent use of over-the-counter painkillers and supplements without proper medical supervision.

From headaches and body pain to fatigue and immunity boosting, many people now rely on quick-fix medicines daily. However, doctors warn that excessive use of common painkillers and health supplements may silently damage vital organs like the kidneys and liver over time.

Why Self-Medication Is Increasing in India

According to doctors, several factors are driving this trend:

• Easy availability of medicines
• Social media health trends
• Online fitness advice
• Viral supplement culture after the pandemic
• Busy lifestyles leading to “quick relief” habits

Many people now consume:

• Painkillers
• Multivitamins
• Protein supplements
• Immunity boosters
  without understanding proper dosage or long-term risks.

Doctors Warn Against Unsupervised Supplement Use

According to Dr Simon Thomas, many people take supplements regularly without medical advice in hopes of improving:

• Fitness
• Energy levels
• Immunity
• Muscle recovery

However, excessive supplement intake may lead to serious side effects.

Health Risks Linked to Excessive Supplements

Doctors say overuse of supplements can cause:

• Nausea
• Gastritis
• Kidney stones
• Skin allergies and rashes
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Organ damage in severe cases

Experts also note that many young adults began depending heavily on:

• Gummies
• Protein powders
• Multivitamins
  after viral online health trends surged post-pandemic.

Common Painkillers Doctors Are Concerned About

Medical experts are especially warning against frequent use of common NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), including:

• Ibuprofen
• Paracetamol
• Diclofenac
• Aceclofenac

These are commonly used for:

• Headaches
• Fever
• Back pain
• Joint pain
• Body aches
• How Painkiller Overuse Can Harm the Body

Doctors warn that frequent or long-term use may increase the risk of: Kidney Damage

Painkillers can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and gradually weaken kidney function.

🫀 Liver Injury

Excessive use of certain medicines, especially paracetamol, may stress the liver and increase the risk of liver toxicity.

Stomach Bleeding

Some NSAIDs may damage the stomach lining and increase the risk of:

• Acidity
• Ulcers
• Internal bleeding

Heart & Blood Pressure Problems

Long-term misuse may also contribute to:

• High blood pressure
• Increased cardiovascular risks

Hidden Danger: Masking Serious Diseases

Doctors also caution that repeatedly taking painkillers can:

• Temporarily suppress symptoms
• Delay diagnosis of underlying illnesses

This means conditions like:

• Arthritis
• Infections
• Kidney disease
• Chronic inflammation

may remain undetected for longer periods.

People at Higher Risk

Medical professionals say the dangers of self-medication are even greater for:

• Elderly individuals
• Pregnant women
• Children
• People with existing kidney or liver conditions

These groups should avoid taking medicines without proper consultation.

Why Internet Advice Can Be Dangerous

Experts stress that:

• Online videos and social media trends cannot replace professional diagnosis.

A medicine or supplement that works for one person may not be safe for another due to:

• Existing health conditions
• Dosage differences
• Drug interactions

As doctors explain:

Safe Practices Doctors Recommend

To avoid long-term complications, experts advise:

• Do not take painkillers daily without medical advice
• Follow recommended dosage limits
• Avoid mixing multiple supplements unnecessarily
• Get regular kidney and liver function tests if using medicines frequently
• Consult a doctor if symptoms persist for more than a few days

Final Takeaway

While over-the-counter painkillers and supplements may offer quick relief, excessive and unsupervised use can quietly damage the body over time.

Doctors emphasize that prevention, moderation, and professional guidance are essential to protecting long-term kidney and liver health.

As temperatures continue to rise across several Indian cities, doctors are warning about a sharp increase in:

• asthma flare-ups,
• breathing difficulties,
• skin allergies,
• fungal infections,
• and heat-related irritation.

According to health experts, extreme heat combined with worsening air pollution is creating a dangerous environment for both respiratory and skin health — especially for children, senior citizens and people with pre-existing allergies.

Medical specialists say the combination of:

• hot air,
• humidity,
• sweat,
• and toxic airborne particles

can severely affect the lungs and skin during summer months.

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How Heat and Pollution Trigger Asthma

Doctors explain that polluted air contains harmful substances such as:

• PM2.5 particles,
• vehicle emissions,
• industrial smoke,
• dust,
• and toxic gases.

These pollutants can irritate the respiratory tract and trigger inflammation inside the airways.

According to Dr. Shareefa Chause, polluted environments during extreme summer conditions can worsen symptoms in people already suffering from:

• Asthma,
• allergies,
• or sensitive lungs.

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Why Asthma Symptoms Become Worse in Summer

During intense heat:

• air becomes heavier,
• humidity increases,
• and pollutants remain trapped closer to the ground.

This creates difficulty for people with respiratory disorders.

Common Asthma Symptoms Triggered by Heat and Pollution

• Chronic coughing
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Breathing difficulty
• Shortness of breath
• Irritated throat

Experts say hot polluted air can inflame already-sensitive air passages, making breathing more difficult.

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How Heat and Pollution Damage the Skin

Health experts also warn that skin problems rise significantly during hot and polluted weather.

Sweat mixed with pollution particles can:

• clog pores,
• increase bacterial growth,
• and weaken the skin barrier.

Common Summer Skin Problems

• Acne breakouts
• Heat rashes
• Itching
• Allergic reactions
• Redness
• Fungal infections
• Skin irritation

Fine pollution particles settle on the skin surface and mix with sweat, dirt and oil, increasing the risk of infection.

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Why Fungal Infections Increase During Summer

Doctors say high humidity and sweat create ideal conditions for fungi and bacteria to grow rapidly.

This increases the chances of:

• ringworm,
• fungal rashes,
• body itching,
• and skin infections.

People who:

• sweat excessively,
• wear tight clothing,
• or remain outdoors for long hours

may face higher risk.

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Air Conditioning Can Also Affect the Skin

Interestingly, experts say sudden temperature changes can also trigger skin issues.

Moving repeatedly between:

• hot outdoor weather
  and
• cold air-conditioned environments

can:

• dry out the skin,
• disturb natural moisture,
• and increase sensitivity.

Some people may experience:

• dry patches,
• itching,
• or eczema flare-ups.

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Who Is Most at Risk?

Doctors say certain groups are more vulnerable to the combined effects of heat and pollution.

High-Risk Groups

• Children
• Elderly individuals
• Pregnant women
• Asthma patients
• People with allergies
• Individuals with sensitive skin

Urban residents living in heavily polluted cities may experience symptoms more frequently during summer.

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Simple Ways to Protect Yourself

Health experts recommend preventive care instead of waiting for symptoms to worsen.

Tips to Reduce Heat and Pollution Effects

1. Avoid Peak Heat Hours

Try not to step outside during:

• afternoon peak heat periods.

2. Wear Masks Outdoors

Masks can reduce inhalation of:

• dust,
• smoke,
• and harmful particles.

3. Wash Face and Hands Properly

Cleaning the skin after returning home helps remove:

• pollution particles,
• sweat,
• and bacteria.

4. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water helps:

• regulate body temperature,
• improve skin health,
• and reduce dehydration risks.

5. Use Lightweight Moisturiser

Experts recommend:

• non-oily moisturisers
  to protect the skin barrier without clogging pores.

6. Wear Loose Cotton Clothes

Breathable clothing reduces:

• sweating,
• skin friction,
• and fungal growth.

7. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Keeping indoor plants may slightly improve air quality around homes.

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Why Awareness Matters During Heatwaves

Experts say climate change, rising temperatures and urban pollution are making summers increasingly harsh.

This means people may witness:

• more allergy cases,
• respiratory illnesses,
• and skin disorders

during future heatwaves.

Doctors advise people not to ignore:

• persistent coughing,
• breathing problems,
• or severe skin irritation,

especially if symptoms worsen during hot weather.

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When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• severe breathing difficulty,
• chest pain,
• persistent wheezing,
• spreading skin infections,
• or high fever with rashes.

Early treatment can prevent complications and reduce long-term health risks.

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Final Takeaway

Medical experts stress that:

• heat,
• humidity,
• and pollution

are now affecting much more than comfort levels during summer.

The combination is increasingly becoming a serious public health concern impacting:

• lungs,
• skin,
• and overall immunity.

However, timely precautions, hydration, hygiene and medical care can significantly reduce the risks.