Various Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer and How to recognize it

In the previous article, we discuss all the basics about Ovarian Cancer. So, in this article, let’s dig deep and discuss the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer and How to recognize it.

Ovaries are the female genital organ. These little, almond-shaped organs are situated on either side of the uterus or the cervix. They are located on either side of the uterus. The ovaries are responsible for generating eggs in the female reproductive system. Ovarian cancer can present itself in several different sites across the ovary.

Ovarian cancer can arise in any of the cells of the ovary’s tissues, including the germ, stromal, and epithelial tissues.

Germ cells are the cells in the body responsible for the development of egg cells.

In the ovary, stromal cells are responsible for creating the ovarian tissue.

The epithelial cells of the ovary are responsible for the formation of the organ’s outer layer.

Signs and Symptoms

In its early stages, ovarian cancer may not manifest itself with symptoms you would be aware of. Even as the condition progresses, the signs and symptoms might be difficult to discern. Constipation and other common ailments, such as indigestion, may be confused with these symptoms.

Ovarian cancer was once referred to as a “silent” illness since it was difficult to detect. The sooner you and your doctor recognize the signs of cancer, the higher chance you and your doctor will catch it early.

Common Symptoms

Ovarian cancer manifests itself through four distinct symptoms. Even in the early stages of the condition, you may be able to detect them. They are as follows:

• Experiencing the desire to go to the bathroom all of the time (urgency) or feeling the need to go to the bathroom often (frequency)
• Having difficulty eating or fast realizing that you’re full
• You are experiencing pelvic or abdominal pain.
• Bloating

These symptoms can be caused by various conditions other than ovarian cancer. Consider whether they are uncommon for you, occurring more frequently, or whether they appear to be growing worse.

Other Symptoms

Other signs and symptoms that you may have ovarian cancer include:

• Being easily fatigued and being fatigued regularly (fatigue)
• Experiencing discomfort during sex
• Back discomfort is a common occurrence.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or heartburn
• Constipation
• Stomach bloating and discomfort
• Unexplained weight changes — such as losing weight without attempting it or bloating that appears to be causing weight gain.
• The presence of unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding, particularly after menopause.

Keep in mind that, while these symptoms may indicate ovarian cancer, it’s more probable that they are caused by something else than cancer.

When to Consult a Medical Professional

Because the symptoms of ovarian cancer are widespread and nonspecific, it might be challenging to determine whether it is necessary to consult a doctor. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, get medical attention:

• This occurs more than 12 times in a single month.
• Changes in lifestyle, such as exercise, nutrition, laxatives, or more rest, will not eliminate the problem.
• Inform your doctor if you have a family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer.

Symptoms of Cysts, Masses, or Tumors of the Ovaries

Several medical problems can result in a mass or swelling in the body’s pelvic region. They can either be malignant (cancerous) or noncancerous (noncancerous). It is possible that you will not be aware that you have one until your doctor notices it during a routine examination.

An ovarian cyst is one of the most prevalent causes of pelvic masses, accounting for around 5% of all cases. Fibroids and endometriosis are two more conditions that might occur.

A pelvic mass can induce symptoms that are similar to those associated with ovarian cancer, including:

• Pelvic pain
• Inflammation of the stomach (swelling or bloating)
• Having to go to the bathroom a lot
• Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms.
• Lower back and thigh aches are common complaints.
• Having difficulty emptying your bladder or bowels
• Pain when having sex Weight increase without a good reason
• Vaginal bleeding that is out of the ordinary
• Tenderness in the breasts

How To Recognize the Ovarian cancer

The following tests and procedures are used to diagnose ovarian cancer:

Examining the pelvis

Pelvic exams are performed by inserting gloved fingers into your vagina while simultaneously pressing a hand on your abdomen to palpate (feel) your pelvic organs. The doctor will also examine your external genitalia, vagina, and cervix with their eyes.

Imaging Tests

It may be possible to determine your ovaries’ size, shape, and structure by tests like ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) images of your abdomen and pelvic.

Blood Tests

Blood testing may include organ function tests, which may help determine your overall health by determining how well you are doing.

In addition, your doctor may do a blood test to check for tumor markers that indicate ovarian cancer. For example, a cancer antigen (CA) 125 test can detect a protein generally seen on the surface of ovarian cancer cells, which can be used to diagnose the disease. However, while these tests will not tell your doctor whether or not you have cancer, they may provide valuable information regarding your diagnosis and prognosis.

Surgery

Removing one ovary and subsequent analysis of the tissue for signs of disease can sometimes provide a definitive diagnosis for certain women diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing is a procedure used to determine a person’s genetic makeup. Your doctor may recommend that you get a sample of your blood tested to see whether you have any gene abnormalities that increase your chance of developing ovarian cancer. Knowing that you have an inherited change in your DNA can assist your doctor in making decisions about your treatment approach and course of action. Some people find it helpful to share the information with their blood relatives, such as their siblings and children, because they may be at risk of having the same gene mutations as you are.

Once it has been determined that you have ovarian cancer, your doctor will use the information gathered from your testing and therapies to determine the stage of your cancer. A woman’s ovarian cancer can be classified into four phases, commonly designated by the Roman numerals I through IV. If the cancer is in its earliest stages, it is likely limited to the ovaries. Cancer has spread to remote parts of the body by the time it reaches stage 4.

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