Ovarian cancer affects more than 20,000 women in the United States each year. [1] Because of its subtle signs that seem unrelated at first, but occur almost every day and do not go away on their own, this deadly disease is also known as the silent killer.
Unfortunately, by the time patients recognize their symptoms as severe, cancer has sometimes spread and progressed. Survival rates can range from 17 percent to 98 percent, according to HealthLine [2], so being cautious pays off. To that end, we’ve compiled a list of 12 early ovarian cancer symptoms and signs that everyone should be aware of.
1. Lower Back Pain
A typical symptom of ovarian cancer is dull lower back pain. Some women compare it to labor pain.
2. Indigestion and Feeling Full
If you have frequent gas, heartburn, nausea, or indigestion, you should have your ovary checked. Similarly, a tumor will develop and make you feel full even though you just eat a small amount of food.
3. Abdominal Pain
Many who have pain in their stomach or the pelvic region that isn’t related to indigestion or menstruation, particularly if it lasts longer than two weeks and isn’t caused by a menstrual cycle, stomach flu, or diarrhea, might have ovarian cancer.
4. Bloating
You should see a doctor if you have excessive bloating or discomfort in your pelvic region or abdomen without making any dietary adjustments.
5. Diarrhea and Constipation
Due to a tumor swelling and adding pressure on your stomach, ovarian cancer often induces alternating constipation and diarrhea.
6. Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite
Since cancer disrupts the metabolism, it’s normal for an ovarian cancer patient to experience a sudden loss of appetite and drastic weight loss without changing his or her diet or exercising.
7. Urinary Frequency
Urinary symptoms, such as frequent peeing or intense and unexpected urges to pee, as well as a lack of bladder control, can be caused by an ovarian cancer tumor.
8. Fatigue
Fatigue is something we all feel from time to time and, as a result, dismiss it easily. However, if the problem persists against your best efforts, seek medical advice.
9. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is a symptom of ovarian cancer metastasis, which is caused by tumors growing large and pushing against the lungs, or a build-up of fluid from cancer.
10. Vaginal Bleeding
In around 25% of ovarian cancer patients, irregular vaginal bleeding that occurs outside of a menstrual period is a symptom. Aside from that, keep an eye out for unexpected blisters or sores, unusual discharge, or changes in skin tone.
11. Irregular Menstrual Cycle
[3] Pain that arises just after or before a menstrual cycle may also be a symptom of ovarian cancer, according to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Ovarian tumors can also make it difficult to have normal periods for months.
12. Pain During Sex
According to VeryWell Health, pain that occurs during intercourse and is felt on more than one side may be a sign of ovarian cancer. [4]
13. Dermatomyositis
Dermatomyositis is a rare inflammatory condition that may affect ovarian cancer patients. [4] Signs include a red or violet rash on the knuckles, elbows, chest, back, and knees, according to the Mayo Clinic.
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/cancer/ovarian-cancer-outlook
[3] https://www.cancercenter.com/ovarian-cancer/symptoms/
[4] https://www.verywell.com/ovarian-cancer-symptoms-514265
[5]https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatomyositis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353188
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