There are few recognizable cervical dysplasia symptoms. Cervical dysplasia is a condition resulting in the growth of abnormal cells on cervical lining and is a leading cause of cervical cancer. Since there aren’t many dysplasia symptoms, many women may not realize they have a condition that can progress to cancer, and if they fail to get regular PAP smears, risk for cancer is high.
Despite the lack of dysplasia symptoms, there are women at higher risk for developing this condition. These women should seriously consider ending any risky behaviors and making certain they receive a PAP smear and gynecological exam yearly. Those most at risk include women who have sex with multiple partners, and anyone who has had human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is responsible for most cases of cervical dysplasia but it may be ignored and asymptomatic. Others at risk include women who smoke, those who have used oral birth control for five or more years, and women who’ve either been directly or indirectly exposed to the hormone diethylstilbestrol.
The one time when women might catch cervical dysplasia symptoms is when they initially get and respond to HPV. It bears repeating that about 90% of people who get this infection don’t notice any sign of illness. Yet in some people, genital warts may develop, or more rarely, warts appear in the throat. Should this occur, it needs to be taken very seriously as posing a real risk of cervical cancer developing down the line.
Not all cases of cervical dysplasia are due to HPV. Some people develop it as a result of having a compromised immune system. As with those women mentioned above who are more at risk, it’s vital for anyone with an immune disorder to be checked for cervical cancer or dysplasia from time to time. Conditions that can result in a dysfunctioning immune system include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, HIV, and being on any drugs that suppress the immune system, such as after receiving an organ transplant. There are many other immune system diseases that may elevate risk.
One of the main preventatives for cervical dysplasia is to avoid contracting HPV, and some forms of it can be prevented with vaccinations. These are now being suggested for girls in their early teens. In addition to vaccination, avoidance of behaviors that increase risk, and regular gynecological exams may be able to catch dysplasia early. Women should definitely see a doctor at once if they do display dysplasia symptoms like genital warts. Once diagnosed there are several treatment options that may help reduce cancer risk: that is, if the proliferation of cells has not advanced significantly.
