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Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer can be quite difficult to detect and diagnose in the early stages. Even with regular blood tests and ultrasounds, a tumor on the ovary can go undetected until it has grown to a substantial size.
Abdominal Pressure and FullnessOne of the most common symptoms women experience with ovarian cancer is a constant pressure felt in the lower abdomen. This is usually accompanied by a feeling of fullness when trying to eat, leading to a decrease in appetite and subsequent weight loss.
Bladder and Bowel ProblemsWomen with ovarian cancer often feel persistent pressure on their bladders, causing an increase in the frequency of urination. This is caused by the tumor pressing on the bladder, decreasing its capacity.
Constipation is also sometimes experienced, although it can be a symptom of other problems. This symptom is usually noteworthy when viewed in conjunction with the other symptoms which are common to ovarian cancer.
It is important for woman to be aware of the symptoms which accompany ovarian cancer, as well as be persistent in being her own advocate when relaying the information to her physician. The earlier a tumor on the ovary is found, the better the prognosis for treatment.
What else can I help you with?
What are the early symptoms for ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer has been known for a long time as The Silent Killer. You should always be aware of your body and any changes that start to occur. While that is not always the easiest thing to do, here is a website that will help you notice any of the early warning signs. http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/news/News/ovarian-cancer-has-early-symptoms
What kind of doctor would diagnose the symptoms of ovarian cancer in a patient?
As with all other forms of cancer, an oncologist would be the doctor or specialist that would diagnose the symptoms of ovarian cancer in a female patient. Warning signs might be found from a gynecologist during a pap smear, but an oncologist would verify the findings for cancer.
Why does ovarian cancer have a poor prognosis?
Ovarian cancer does not produce specific symptoms that would clue doctors to this diagnosis. Most common symptoms include malaise, weakness, bloating, vague abdominal discomfort. There are no good blood markers that can diagnose ovarian cancer. Therefore, it is difficult to screen for ovarian cancer. By the time symptoms develop, quite often ovarian cancer can already be spread and metastasized.
Know What to Look Out For in Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer, a killer of women young and old, can be difficult to diagnose. You'll have to keep a close eye on your symptoms and report to your doctor any problems you are experiencing. Even when you experience a few symptoms indicative of ovarian cancer, you can't be certain without further testing, as many of the symptoms can indicate another condition, such as digestive issues. Arm yourself with the knowledge of ovarian cancer symptoms and you will empower yourself to take charge of your health. Signs and Symptoms Ovarian cancer is thought to be a "silent killer" because it is often not diagnosed until it is too late for treatment. That's why you need to be on top of your symptoms and visit your doctor with any concerns. A feeling of constantly feeling bloated, coupled with stomach or pelvis pain, could make up a couple of the warning signs of ovarian cancer. Other symptoms include a sensation of being "full" quickly after eating, as well as your clothing fitting snugly all of a sudden. Frequency or urge of urination is another potential sign. Are you tired all the time? Do you suffer from back pain? Have you experienced changes in menstruation, constipation, or pain during sex? These signs could point to ovarian cancer, but they could also be unrelated if you only have a few of the above symptoms. Sometimes ovarian cancer symptoms can sound just like those associated with digestive problems, for instance, which is why further testing will be needed. One big reason to visit your doctor is if you have a family history of ovarian cancer or even breast cancer, which can up your risks associated with developing the cancer sometime in your life. Calling Your Doctor It's time to call your physician when you have steadily experienced some or all of these symptoms. Your primary care physician can refer you to an internist, gynecologist or obstetrician to further discuss your risk for ovarian cancer and test you for it. If you do indeed have ovarian cancer, determined and confirmed through extensive testing, a gynecologic oncologist or a medical oncologist can help you manage your treatment plan and care for your overall health.
Can ovarian cancer symptoms ease up at times?
Yes
Ovarian Cancer Signs and Symptoms?
Ovarian cancer starts in a woman's ovaries and often spreads to other places within the abdomen and pelvis if left undetected. Knowing and recognizing the symptoms of ovarian cancer are imperative in early detection. If caught at an early stage, curing ovarian cancer is more likely. Keep in mind, however, that ovarian cancer symptoms are quite vague and often resemble symptoms associated with other medical problems and diseases. Check with your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms of ovarian cancer and he or she will determine your next course of action.The symptoms associated with ovarian cancer are typically persistent and tend to get worse over time. The most common symptoms are:Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area on one or both sidesFullness, pressure, bloating or swelling in the abdomenPersistent gas, nausea or indigestionConstipation or other changes in normal bowel habitsFrequent urination or other changes in normal bladder habitsFeeling full quickly or loss of appetitePain in the lower backLack of energySome less common symptoms associated with ovarian cancer are:Feeling short of breathAbnormal vaginal bleedingVaginal bleeding after menopauseHeavy periodsKeep in mind that even if you experience one or more of these symptoms, it is not a guarantee that you have ovarian cancer. Also important to note is the fact that many women who are diagnosed with ovarian cancer never experience any symptoms at all until the cancer has spread. If you exhibit any of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, make an appointment with your doctor to address your concerns. Your doctor may give you a physical examination, blood test, pelvic exam or ultrasound to determine if you have ovarian cancer. It is especially important not to overlook the symptoms of ovarian cancer if you are in a high risk category for this type of cancer. A family history of breast ovarian cancer increases your risk.
Can Ovarian cancer cause right lower back and sciatic pain?
Sciatica and lower back pain are one of the most common symptoms of ovarian cancer. This is a symptom that is often overlooked by many women.
What are the signs of ovarian cancer?
Signs of ovarian cancer include being sleepy all the time, being bloated, having abdominal pain, frequent urination, menstrual bleeding that is not normal, and feeling nauseated.
Are there any websites that can help me find symptoms of ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer symtoms may include abdomen pressure, pain or swelling, nausea, constipation or diarrhea, and a general feeling of exhaustion. You should see a medical professional such as a family doctor or gynecologist to be acurately diagnosed. Your insurance can provide you with a list of doctors. http://www.medicinenet.com/ovarian_cancer/article.htm
What are some of the warning signs of ovarian cancer?
Some of the warning signs of ovarian cancer include abdominal pain, drastic weight loss, bloating, lack of energy, pelvic discomfort and pain, as well as thyroid problems.
Symptoms that Indicate Ovarian Cancer?
If you have a family history of ovarian cancer, you may be curious to know what the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer are. This type of cancer can be very hard to diagnose, as symptoms of this deadly disease can mirror those of other conditions, such as digestive issues. However, with the help of your doctor, you can be on the lookout for ovarian cancer symptoms. Be Proactive Be aware of the many ovarian cancer symptoms, but keep in mind that many symptoms that may indicate ovarian cancer may also be markers for other conditions. So, be proactive in your health analysis but always consult with your doctor on any symptoms you may be experiencing for an official diagnosis. Pressure in the abdomen, along with bloating or swelling, could be an indication of ovarian cancer. You may also experience discomfort in your pelvic area; indigestion, gas or nausea that just won't go away; constipation; no energy; and lower back pain. In addition, if you have no appetite when you previous loved eating food, if your clothes are fitting tighter around your waist and you feel full quickly after eating, talk to your doctor. Any changes in your bladder habits, such as having to urinate on a more frequent basis than usual, could also point to possible ovarian cancer. Consult with Your Physician It's important to note that if you experience just one or two of these symptoms, these alone shouldn't cause panic. That's why its wise to visit with your doctor and notify her of your symptoms. Your doctor will likely recommend lab testing to determine if it is indeed cancer or another condition. You may have increased cause for concern if you have a family history of ovarian cancer, so speaking with your physician about your risk of this type of cancer may help put your fears at ease. It may also help you be proactive and alert to possible ovarian cancer symptoms should they arise in the future. You may also get a referral to meet with a genetic counselor to get tested for gene mutations that may show an increased chance for ovarian cancer.
Will getting your tubes tied decrease risk of ovarian cysts?
Getting tubal ligation (your tubes tied) does reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by 30% and higher. Ovarian cancer is a rare type of cancer that often presents symptoms in later stages.
