Symptoms You Might Have Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is a harmful growth that occurs in the ovaries, which is a vital part of the female reproductive system. These organs are known to create eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

In this type of cancer, cells are known to grow rapidly and damage healthy tissue. Although the exact cause is unknown, specific genetic mutations increase the risk, which can cause cells to multiply uncontrollably. This can also cause tumors to spread throughout the body fairly quickly.

Different Types of Ovarian Cancer

The type of ovarian cancer is determined by the origin of the cancer cells, which also helps Doctors decide on the most suitable treatment options.

Ovarian cancer can be broadly categorized into:

1. Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: This is the most prevalent form of ovarian cancer and encompasses various subtypes, such as serous carcinoma and mucinous carcinoma.
2. Stromal Tumors: These uncommon tumors are typically diagnosed earlier than other forms of ovarian cancer.
3. Germ Cell Tumors: These rare types of ovarian cancer generally affect younger individuals.

(Mayo Clinic)

Identifying the type of ovarian cancer is the first step towards figuring out which treatment will be used.

Signs and Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer can present various signs and symptoms, but they become more obvious when the disease has advanced. However, you can still have symptoms in earlier stages.

The most common are:

• Bloating
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
• Urinary symptoms, such as a persistent sense of urgency or increased frequency

With ovarian cancer these symptoms tend to be consistent. They can occur frequently or with greater severity. It’s worth mentioning that most of these symptoms are not exclusive to ovarian cancer and can be associated with other conditions as well.

You want to watch out for these symptoms if they occur regularly or even multiple times a month. If you are experiencing these symptoms, get real medical help. They can evaluate you and make sure this is just a scare. If it is not a false alarm, catching it earlier can save you from experiencing more pain and future complications.

Other potential symptoms of ovarian cancer include:

• Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
• Upset stomach
• Back pain
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Constipation
• Changes in menstrual periods, such as heavier or irregular bleeding
• Abdominal swelling along with weight loss

(Cancer.org)

It is possible to detect and address ovarian cancer in its early stages, but you have to be aware and consult a physician regularly.

Treatment Of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is usually treated with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. If you are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, your Doctor will probably refer you to a gynecologic oncologist, who is a specialist in treating reproductive system cancers. They will work with you to create a treatment plan.

The main types of treatment for ovarian cancer are:

1. Surgery: Cancer tissue is removed through an operation.
2. Chemotherapy: Special medicines are used to shrink or kill the cancer cells. These medicines can be taken as pills, given through your veins, or sometimes both.

Gynecologic oncologists

These types of Doctors are specialists that can perform the surgery and provide chemotherapy. A surgeon will perform operations on a patient, while a medical oncologist treats the cancer with medicine. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

For ongoing or recurring symptoms that are not life-threatening, contact your healthcare provider and discuss your concerns in detail. Being proactive about your health is how you stay ahead of cancer. Early detection and intervention can significantly impact the successful treatment of ovarian cancer.

Get immediate medical care if you think have any of these symptoms consistently: intense abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, or sudden changes in consciousness.

If you need help right now, and you are located in Houston, please visit Rice Emergency Room. You do not need an appointment, just walk in or check in online.

 

Works Cited:

Mayo Clinic. “Ovarian Cancer.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 9 May 2023,

www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20375941.

Cancer.org. “Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer.” Early Signs of Ovarian Cancer,

www.cancer.org/cancer/types/ovarian-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “How Is Ovarian Cancer Treated?” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 31 Aug. 2022,

www.cdc.gov/cancer/ovarian/basic_info/treatment.htm.