Ovarian Cancer Symptoms does not cause many early signs until the cancer grows. Women should consult their physician if they experience pressure or fullness in the pelvis, abdominal bloating, or changes in bowel and bladder patterns that continue and/or worsen.The early detection of ovarian cancer symptoms greatly increases the chances for successful treatment and survival. However, the symptoms of ovarian cancer are usually "silent," meaning that they are either subtle or do not present themselves until the disease has progressed to more advanced stages. However, recent research suggests that there may be common symptoms of ovarian cancer. Women should become familiar with the symptoms of ovarian cancer and see a physician if they experience a persistent symptom. All women 18 years of age and older should also receive annual pelvic exams for anticipate ovarian cancer symptoms.
In a recent study published in the journal, Ovarian Cancer Symptoms, researchers from the University of Washington found that certain symptoms were more commonly associated with women diagnosed with ovarian cancer. To conduct their study, the researchers had women with and without ovarian cancer complete a survey that asked about certain symptoms such as indigestion, constipation, bleeding after menopause, and back pain. The study results showed that the women with ovarian cancer symptoms were more likely to report one or more of the 6 symptoms on the survey. Moreover, the women often experienced the symptom(s) 12 or more times per month.
Though these "silent" symptoms may sometimes indicate the presence of ovarian cancer, they may also indicate benign (non-cancerous) ovarian conditions or other conditions. Unfortunately, there are often no symptoms in the early stages of ovarian cancer. As the cancer grows, women may experience lower abdominal discomfort or swelling. However, symptoms do not always present themselves until the cancer has spread past the ovaries. Since several symptoms of ovarian cancer are associated with a variety of other conditions, many harmless, they are sometimes ignored even when they are present ( Ovarian Cancer Symptoms ).
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms include:
* Ongoing cramps or pain in your belly.
* Ongoing pain in your pelvis or lower back.
* Abnormal bleeding from your vagina, especially after menopause if you are not using any hormonal medicines.
* Abnormal discharge from your vagina, containing mucus that may be tinged with blood.
* Pain or bleeding during sex.
* Nausea or loss of appetite, or you cannot eat normally.
* Ongoing bloating or intestinal gas that is not relieved by home treatment measures.
* Bigger belly size or a lump that can be felt in your belly.
* Decreased energy level.
* A change in your bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea.
* A change in your bladder habits, such as urinary frequency or urgency.
* Weight loss.
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms