X Factor star reveals 'devastating' diagnosis after years of suffering physical pain and mental anguish as famous friends rush to offer support
The songstress, 29, who found fame on the show in 2012, took to her Instagram on Wednesday as she bravely opened up about the mental toll the condition had also taken and left fearing she was making up her symptoms.
Endometriosis occurs when cells in the lining of the uterus are found elsewhere in the body. Symptoms include pain, heavy periods and fatigue, as well as a higher risk of infertility, and bowel and bladder problems.
In a clip the Ghost hitmaker said: 'The last few years have been a bit of a rollercoaster to say the least, behind the scenes and I've really 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 y head and I wasn't really believed'.
Later writing in a statement: 'After years of struggling with confusing and challenging health problems including stomach bloating, bowel pain and heavy periods.
'Plus countless GP appointments leading to scans, tests and the feeling that maybe the pain was all in my head, I was officially diagnosed with Endometriosis in January this year.
Ella continued: 'The revelation came after a laparoscopy, which found severe endometriosis behind my uterus and scar tissue affecting my bladder and bowel.
'For those who are unfamiliar with this condition (just like I was only months ago) - endometriosis occurs when cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb are found elsewhere in the body'.
"The diagnosis was a difficult one to swallow but on the other hand it feels validating and empowering. It meant I wasn't imagining things after all, and 1 could finally find a way forward and take control of my body'.
'My long journey to an endometriosis diagnosis is not unique. It takes on average up to 9 years in the UK, which for many like me, can put an immense mental and physical toll on you.
"Living in chronic pain, not being believed, and constant misdiagnosis led to periods of depression, isolation and anxiety. If health practitioners had recognised my endometriosis symptoms sooner, I might all that have been spared'.
"Although it took a long time (like many women out there) to finally get a definitive diagnosis, it has allowed me to receive appropriate and life-changing support.
"Which, in my case, was surgery, that so far helped to significantly reduce my symptoms. Unfortunately, there is no actual cure for endometriosis,'
Later writing in a statement: 'After years of struggling with confusing and challenging health problems including stomach bloating, bowel pain and heavy periods'
'So ongoing management will likely be part of my life, whether that's through lifestyle changes, pain management, or other treatments'.
Ella's fans and famous friends alike were quick to rush to the comment and offer her their support.
TV's Gabby Roslin shared a slew of love heart emojis while broadcaster Miranda Burns said: 'Worst club with the best members. thank you for sharing Ella. Sending lots of love'.
Following her appearance on the X Factor, where she became the eighth contestant eliminated, Ella has gone on to release hit single Ghost, Glow and Yours.
WHAT IS ENDOMETRIOSIS?
Endometriosis occurs when cells in the lining of the uterus are found elsewhere in the body.
Each month, these cells react in the same way as those in the uterus; building up, breaking down and bleeding. Yet, the blood has no way to escape the body.
Symptoms include pain, heavy periods and fatigue, as well as a higher risk of infertility, and bowel and bladder problems.
Its cause is unknown but may be genetic, related to problems with the immune system or exposure to chemicals.
Treatment focuses on pain relief and improving quality of life, which may include surgery or hormone treatment.
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