Ovarian cancer is one of the most deadly types of cancer in women, but it can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages. Unfortunately, many women ignore the symptoms of ovarian cancer, which can lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment.
Why are ovarian cancer symptoms so silent?
There exists the five-year relative survival rate for all types of ovarian cancer and it equals to fourty five percent, but this number rises to ninety two percent if the cancer is caught in stage IA or IB, right before it is spread beyond the ovary, in accordance to the American Cancer Society. Because of the fact that ovarian cancer symptoms may be very hard to recognize, about seventy percent of all cases are not found until they have advanced to stage III or IV, when it happens that the chances for survival are a lot lower, notes Kevin Holcomb, a director of gynecologic oncology at Weill Cornell Medicine.
This kind of cancer is not so much a silent disease, Dr. Holcomb notes. A huge number of females with ovarian cancer have some symptoms in the months and weeks leading up to the diagnosis but it is actually very sad that many are vague and nonspecific. This kind of cancer whispers, and therefore, you have to listen closely.
Contrary to the breast cancer, there are no tests that have been developed to screen for ovarian cancer so accurately, which makes this cancer hard to be detected, but unless you report symptoms early yourself. In case you are feeling more than one of the symptoms for a week or more than this, consult with your doctor about getting a transvaginal sonogram, pelvic examination, or a CA 125 blood test, which will help detect ovarian cancer. There follows the things OB-GYNs wish you knew about this cancer.
Here are 7 signs of ovarian cancer that you might be ignoring:
Bloating: Bloating is a common symptom of ovarian cancer and is often overlooked as a normal part of the menstrual cycle or menopause. However, if you experience persistent bloating that does not go away, it could be a sign of ovarian cancer.
Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain or discomfort can be a symptom of many different health issues, including ovarian cancer. If you experience persistent pain in your abdomen or pelvis, it’s important to speak to your doctor to rule out any serious conditions.
Changes in bowel habits: Ovarian cancer can cause changes in your bowel habits, including constipation, diarrhea, or frequent urination. These symptoms can be easily dismissed, but it’s important to discuss any changes with your doctor.
Feeling full quickly: If you feel full quickly or have difficulty eating, it could be a sign of ovarian cancer. This symptom is often associated with a loss of appetite, which can make it difficult to maintain a healthy weight.
Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of many health conditions, including ovarian cancer. If you experience persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest, it’s important to speak to your doctor.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding: Abnormal vaginal bleeding can be a sign of many different health issues, including ovarian cancer. If you experience bleeding between periods or after menopause, it’s important to speak to your doctor.
Unexplained weight loss: Unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of many different health conditions, including ovarian cancer. If you have lost a significant amount of weight without trying, it’s important to speak to your doctor.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by a variety of health conditions, not just ovarian cancer. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak to your doctor to rule out any serious health conditions.
In addition to these symptoms, there are also risk factors that increase a woman’s chances of developing ovarian cancer. These risk factors include a family history of ovarian cancer, a personal history of breast cancer, and certain genetic mutations.
If you are at high risk for ovarian cancer, your doctor may recommend regular screening tests such as a pelvic exam, transvaginal ultrasound, or a CA-125 blood test. Early detection is key to successful treatment and survival.
In conclusion, ovarian cancer is a serious health condition that can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to speak to your doctor to rule out any serious health conditions. By being aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, you can take control of your health and potentially save your life.
