Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the uterus, also known as the endometrium.
It is the most common type of uterine cancer and is typically found in women who are going through or have completed menopause, although it can affect younger women as well.
While some women may experience obvious symptoms of endometrial cancer, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or pain during sex, others may experience more subtle symptoms that they may not even realize are associated with the disease.
In this article, we will discuss the silent symptoms of endometrial cancer that every woman should know.
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
If you have been losing weight without making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine, this could be a silent symptom of endometrial cancer.
Unexplained weight loss can be a sign that cancer is present in the body and can be caused by changes in metabolism or changes in the way your body processes nutrients.
2. Pelvic Pain
While pelvic pain can be caused by a number of different conditions, including menstrual cramps, ovarian cysts and fibroids, it can also be a silent symptom of endometrial cancer.
If you experience pelvic pain that persists for several days or weeks and is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication, it is important to talk to your doctor.
3. Fatigue
Feeling tired all the time, even when you have had enough sleep, can be a silent symptom of endometrial cancer.
Fatigue can be caused by changes in hormone levels, anemia or changes in the way your body is processing nutrients due to the presence of cancer.
4. Changes in Bowel Habits
If you notice changes in your bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea that persists for several days or weeks, this could be a silent symptom of endometrial cancer.
This is because the uterus is located close to the rectum and as a result, tumors can put pressure on the rectum, causing changes in bowel habits.
5. Abdominal Swelling or Bloating
If you notice that your abdomen appears to be swelling or becoming larger, this could be a silent symptom of endometrial cancer.
This is because the uterus is located in the abdominal cavity and as a result, tumors can cause swelling or fluid buildup in the abdomen.
6. Back Pain
While back pain can be caused by a number of different conditions, including muscle strain and injury, it can also be a silent symptom of endometrial cancer.
This is because the uterus is located near the back and as a result, tumors can put pressure on the nerves in the back, causing pain.
7. Painful Urination
Painful urination can be a silent symptom of endometrial cancer, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as pelvic pain or changes in bowel habits.
This is because the bladder is located near the uterus and as a result, tumors can put pressure on the bladder, causing pain and discomfort when urinating.
8. Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
If you notice an abnormal or unusual vaginal discharge, this could be a silent symptom of endometrial cancer. This is because tumors can cause changes in the lining of the uterus, leading to changes in vaginal discharge.
9. Pain during Intercourse
While pain during intercourse can be caused by a number of different conditions, including vaginal dryness and muscle strain, it can also be a silent symptom of endometrial cancer.
This is because tumors can cause pain and discomfort during sexual activity.
10. Irregular Menstrual Bleeding
Irregular menstrual bleeding is one of the most common symptoms of endometrial cancer and is often what prompts women to seek medical attention.
If you experience bleeding between periods, bleeding after menopause or periods that are longer or heavier than usual, it is important to talk to your doctor.
Conclusion
While some women may experience obvious symptoms of endometrial cancer, others may experience more subtle symptoms that they may not even realize are associated with the disease.
If you experience any of the silent symptoms listed above, it is important to talk to your doctor as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can help improve your chances of a successful outcome.