Ovarian cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer in women. It’s often called the “silent killer” because it doesn’t show any symptoms until it’s in its advanced stages.
That’s why it’s important to be aware of possible warning signs. By recognizing the signs and seeking medical attention early, women have a better chance of beating this disease.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. Ovarian cancer can spread to other parts of the body, which is why early detection is so important.
This type of cancer is more common in women over 50, but it can affect women of any age.
Warning Signs of Ovarian Cancer
Here are the warning signs of ovarian cancer that you should watch for. If you experience any of these symptoms, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have ovarian cancer, but it’s important to talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
1. Abdominal Pain or Bloating
Abdominal pain or bloating can be a symptom of many things, but it’s also a warning sign of ovarian cancer.
If you experience persistent pain or bloating, especially if it doesn’t go away after a few days or weeks, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
2. Difficulty Eating or Feeling Full Quickly
If you have difficulty eating or feel full quickly, it could be a warning sign of ovarian cancer. This symptom is often ignored because it’s associated with other conditions, such as acid reflux or irritable bowel syndrome.
If you experience this symptom alongside other warning signs, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
3. Increased Urination
If you find yourself needing to urinate more frequently than usual, it could be a warning sign of ovarian cancer.
This symptom is often ignored because it’s associated with other conditions, such as urinary tract infections or prostate problems (in men). If you experience this symptom alongside other warning signs, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
4. Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom for many conditions, but it’s also a warning sign of ovarian cancer. If you experience persistent fatigue that doesn’t go away with rest, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
Fatigue can be a sign that your body is fighting off an illness, and it shouldn’t be ignored.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain
If you experience unexplained weight loss or gain, it could be a warning sign of ovarian cancer. Weight changes are often associated with other conditions, such as thyroid problems or diabetes, but they can also be a symptom of ovarian cancer.
If you experience this symptom alongside other warning signs, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
6. Pain During Intercourse
If you experience pain during intercourse, it could be a warning sign of ovarian cancer. This symptom is often ignored because it’s associated with other conditions, such as vaginal infections or menopause.
However, if you experience this symptom alongside other warning signs, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
7. Changes in Bowel Habits
If you experience changes in your bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, it could be a warning sign of ovarian cancer.
This symptom is often ignored because it’s associated with other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome or food poisoning. However, if you experience this symptom alongside other warning signs, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
8. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
If you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods or after menopause, it could be a warning sign of ovarian cancer.
This symptom is often ignored because it’s associated with other conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or cervical cancer. However, if you experience this symptom alongside other warning signs, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
9. Back Pain
Back pain can be a symptom of many things, but it’s also a warning sign of ovarian cancer. If you experience persistent back pain, especially if it doesn’t go away with rest, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
10. Itchy Skin
If you experience itchy skin, it could be a warning sign of ovarian cancer. This symptom is often ignored because it’s associated with other conditions, such as eczema or allergies.
However, if you experience this symptom alongside other warning signs, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
Conclusion
By being aware of the possible warning signs of ovarian cancer, women have a better chance of detecting this disease early and seeking treatment. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
Early detection is the key to beating ovarian cancer.