Ovarian cancer is one of the deadliest malignancies affecting women, with an estimated 22,530 new cases identified in the United States yearly. Unfortunately, many women do not notice the early warning signs and symptoms, which can lead to late diagnosis and bad results. It is why paying attention to your body is vital, as understanding what signs to watch for. 

What is ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the ovaries, the reproductive organs of women that generate eggs. This cancer can develop in any ovary area and spread to other body parts if not diagnosed and treated early. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer is frequently not recognized until it has reached an advanced stage, so it is vital to know the early warning symptoms and get medical assistance if you encounter any of them.

There are numerous forms of ovarian cancer, including epithelial ovarian cancer, the most prevalent form, and germ cell and stromal tumors, which are less frequent. Epithelial ovarian cancer originates in the cells on the surface of the ovary. It can spread to other sections of the body. Germ cell and stromal cancers start in the cells that generate eggs and the cells that release hormones, respectively. While ovarian cancer can develop at any age, it is most typically detected in women over 50. 

The importance of early detection

Early diagnosis is vital when it comes to ovarian cancer. Unfortunately, most women don’t detect symptoms until the cancer has progressed sufficiently. Listening to your body and paying attention to any changes is crucial.

You must consult a doctor promptly if you develop any odd symptoms, such as bloating, stomach discomfort, trouble eating, or frequent urinating. These symptoms may not necessarily signify that you have ovarian cancer. Still, they might signal an underlying issue that has to be addressed.

Common early warning symptoms of ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer [https://www.balcomedicalcentre.com/] is sometimes termed the “silent killer” since it doesn’t normally create apparent signs until it has progressed to an advanced stage. However, women should be aware of several frequent early warning symptoms.

Abdominal bloating or swelling is among the most prevalent early ovarian cancer indications. Women may feel that their stomach is becoming larger for no obvious reason or that their clothing is snug.

Another typical early warning symptom of ovarian cancer is feeling full fast or having difficulty eating. It can happen even if you haven’t eaten much and might be followed by symptoms of nausea or indigestion.

Pelvic pain or discomfort is also a typical early indication of ovarian cancer. It might be a mild aching or a sharp pain and may be present in the pelvic area, lower back, or thighs.

Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, can potentially be an early warning indication of ovarian cancer. It might be accompanied by stomach discomfort, gas, or bloating.

Abdominal bloating and pain

Abdominal bloating and discomfort are frequent signs of ovarian cancer. It is because the ovaries are positioned in the lower abdomen. When ovarian cancer develops, it can cause fluid to build up in the belly, leading to bloating and pain. It bloating may also cause garments to feel tighter than normal or produce a sensation of fullness even after eating only a tiny quantity.

Changes in bowel habits

One of the early warning symptoms of ovarian cancer is changes in bowel habits. It indicates you may get constipation, diarrhea, or both. These changes might develop rapidly and last for several weeks.

It is crucial to highlight that experiencing changes in bowel habits does not always signal you have ovarian cancer. However, paying attention to any changes and visiting your doctor if they continue is vital.

Loss of appetite or feeling full soon

One of the lesser-known symptoms of ovarian cancer is a decreased appetite or feeling full fast. The symptoms might be easily missed or ascribed to other sources. Still, it’s crucial to pay attention to your health and seek medical assistance if you detect A change in your eating habits.

The discomfort develops because ovarian cancer can induce a fluid accumulation in the belly, making you feel full even if you haven’t eaten much. 

Pelvic discomfort or pressure

Pelvic discomfort or pressure is a typical sign of ovarian cancer. The discomfort might be felt in the lower abdomen or pelvis and can be chronic or intermittent. It is crucial to note that various illnesses, such as endometriosis, fibroids, or bladder infections, can cause pelvic pain or pressure. It is crucial to check with your doctor if you have such symptoms.

In other circumstances, the discomfort may be accompanied by bloating, swelling, or a sense of fullness in the belly. These symptoms should not be disregarded, especially when they linger for many weeks. Keeping track of the agony’s duration and severity may serve your physician when pinpointing the cause of distress.

Symptoms of the bladder

Urinary symptoms can be a marker of ovarian cancer, and it’s crucial to understand them. If you have any symptoms, communicating with your doctor promptly is vital.

One possible sign is wanting to pee more frequently than normal. You may also have a sudden and strong desire to go to the toilet, even if you have yet to consume a lot of fluids.

Unexplained weight loss

Unexplained weight loss is another early warning symptom of ovarian cancer that women should be aware of. If you lose weight without changing your diet or exercise habits, it might be a clue that something is amiss. It is because ovarian cancer cells can induce a decrease in appetite and disrupt how your body absorbs food. As a result, you may start losing weight without even attempting it.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, ovarian cancer is a dangerous and life-threatening disease that may be treated effectively if found early. By listening to your body and being aware of the early warning symptoms, you can boost your chances of early discovery and treatment.

Don’t hesitate to check with your doctor if you suffer any symptoms, no matter how small they may appear. It’s crucial to be proactive about your health; frequent check-ups and screening tests can also help discover ovarian cancer early.