Because it evolves in silence and its signs may go unnoticed, ovarian cancer is often diagnosed late. Here’s some ovarian cancer information you need to know …
Women with ovarian cancer often have troubling cancer symptoms. Physical symptoms usually depend on the specific type of cancer a woman has and where it has spread.
There are some warning signs that you can not miss. But you have to associate your observations with other factors to avoid drawing too hasty conclusions. According to the National Ovarian Cancer Association, for every 100 women whose symptoms match those of ovarian cancer, only one had early-stage ovarian cancer.
That said, if you feel that there is something weird, you should not ignore it. This cancer is the second most common type of gynecological cancer in women, but it is the one with the highest mortality rate since it is almost always discovered too late. Thus the importance of ovarian cancer awareness.
The goal of ovarian cancer awareness campaigns is to increase awareness and reduce the stigma linked to ovarian cancer treatment options and symptoms. As a result, cancer cases are being diagnosed earlier at a stage when the ovarian cancer treatment is more effective.
Here are 15 Unexpected Ovarian Cancer Symptoms Every Woman Should Know:
The first signs can be so common that some women might ignore them…
Open next page to see more...
>
1. Constipation and other changes in your stool
Ovarian cancer and intestinal changes go hand in hand. Women with persistent digestive disorders (constipation, diarrhea, increased gas, bloating, nausea and vomiting) should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If the symptom persists for two weeks or more, it is time to consult your doctor for examination.
2. Loss of appetite or feeling satiated quickly when you eat
Women are generally happy when they lose a few pounds, but that’s not always a good sign. Women with advanced cancer usually become very thin. This may be because they find it difficult to eat and drink, or they have lost their appetite, even for the foods they used to love.
This leads to malnutrition and weight loss. This is sign points to ovarian cancer; women who suffer from it say they have no appetite and cannot eat even when they have not eaten anything in a while.
Open next page to see more
>
3. Pain with sexual activity
The most common cause of pain during intercourse is insufficient vaginal lubrication. In women with advanced ovarian cancer, pain is usually felt on the right or left side of the pelvis.
4. Fatigue
Feeling excessively tired and low in energy may signal an underlying condition. Feeling tired most of the time is not normal. Having little or no energy is a sign that something is wrong with your body and it should be checked by your doctor.
Fatigue is very common in women with advanced cancer. They often get tired very quickly and have less energy. They can be sleepy and less alert and active. Fatigue can greatly affect mood, appetite and overall quality of life. It is important to enjoy times when a person does not feel too tired to do important activities, such as visits and conversations.
Read more on the next page...
>
5. Pelvic Pain
A woman may experience pain or discomfort in the pelvic area and sometimes in the abdomen as well. If the pain persists, it should not be ignored or masked by the use of painkillers. The pain in the pelvic area needs to be treated.
Again, cancerous masses can put pressure on neighboring organs, causing them to ache or throb. Pain in the surrounding areas might also result if cancer has spread.
6. Lower back pain
Lower back pain that radiates to the pelvic area, accompanied by pelvic heaviness, should be taken seriously and a medical examination is required.
Read more on the next page...
>
7. Urgent or Frequent Urination
When a woman has a strong urge to urinate and has trouble withholding urine for short periods of time, this may be due to weakening of pelvic floor muscles or urinary tract infection. However, if this continues after seeking medical treatment, it is important for the woman to mention it to her doctor.
8. Bloating
Abdominal swelling or bloating is very common in women with ovarian cancer. As the disease progresses, abdominal distension and bloating will worsen. The abdomen will constantly grow in size and this is a symptom that requires urgent medical investigation.
