According to the American Cancer Society, more than 21,000 women were diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2015. Although the exact cause is unknown, experts do know that there are several common factors that women who are diagnosed seem to share.
For example, some common factors include: women who are over 50 years old, have never given birth, experienced menopause after age 50, obesity and those who have a history of polycystic ovary syndrome.
Ovarian cancer is known as the silent killer because symptoms can be non-specific or point to other medical conditions. It is also the second most common form of cancer with the highest mortality rate because it is often diagnosed in the latent stages.
Early detection can save your life. For an appointment with Eagles Landing OB/GYN, call (770) 474-1919.
Here are ten early warning signs of ovarian cancer:
- Pelvic or abdominal pain. When there is a tumor in the pelvic or abdominal area, it puts pressure on that area causing severe, persistent pain.
- Painful intercourse. The medical term for this is dyspareunia. This may be a new type of discomfort and some women experience mild bleeding after intercourse.
- Swelling in the abdominal area. Side effects of ovarian cancer are bloating, gaseous expansion of the tummy, heartburn or even indigestion with nausea.
- Increase in urination. Incontinence, blood-spotted urine or the increase in the number of trips to the toilet can be due to abdominal tumor pressure.
- Getting full fast. Ovarian tumors obstruct the digestion process, affect metabolism and prevent the proper breakdown of food.
- Vaginal irregularities and abnormalities. Look out for sores, blisters, postmenopausal vaginal bleeding or even a change in color.
- Pain in the lower back. Although back pain can occur from various reasons, if you experience other symptoms listed along with back pain, consult your doctor.
- Difficulty breathing. If the cancer spreads, it leads to too much fluid in the abdomen, which becomes irritated. This puts pressure on the diaphragm, causing shortness of breath.
- Changed bowel habits. Depending on where the tumor is placing pressure, the bowel can become constipated or you can experience diarrhea.
- Chronic fatigue. Cancer reduces red blood cells, which leads to anemia because there is decreased oxygen circulated throughout the body.
