Symptoms of ovarian cancer: Initial indications, progression, and further details
Ovarian cancer is a malignant growth that develops in one or both ovaries or fallopian tubes. If someone experiences persistent symptoms of ovarian cancer, especially after the age of 50, they should speak with a doctor.
Persistent bloating, abdominal discomfort, and changes in appetite or digestion are common symptoms of ovarian cancer. However, these symptoms can also be associated with other conditions such as gastrointestinal issues, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, menstrual-related symptoms, and benign pelvic or abdominal conditions.
Gastrointestinal issues, like indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or gastritis, often cause persistent bloating, abdominal fullness, changes in bowel habits, and discomfort, which are also seen in early ovarian cancer.
PCOS can cause symptoms such as abdominal bloating, pelvic discomfort, irregular periods, weight changes, and unexplained hair growth, some of which overlap with ovarian cancer signs.
Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can lead to unexplained weight loss or gain, appetite changes, and fatigue, which might mimic cancer-associated symptoms like weight loss or tiredness.
Normal or abnormal menstrual cycles, including spotting or bleeding irregularities, can confuse early ovarian cancer symptoms such as postmenopausal bleeding or unusual vaginal discharge.
Other benign pelvic or abdominal conditions, including ovarian cysts or benign tumors, can produce bloating, pelvic pain or pressure, and urinary frequency, which mimic ovarian cancer features.
Because early ovarian cancer symptoms—such as persistent bloating, early satiety, pelvic pain, increased urinary frequency, and unexplained weight loss—are vague and common to many less serious conditions, they are often mistaken for benign issues. Persistent or worsening symptoms over weeks warrant medical evaluation to differentiate from ovarian cancer.
If someone suspects ovarian cancer, they may want to request to speak with a gynecologic oncologist to avoid misdiagnosis. Early signs of ovarian cancer can be subtle and may include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, more frequent or urgent need to urinate, changes in menstruation, pain during sex, tiredness, back pain, and upset stomach or constipation.
As ovarian cancer progresses, the cancerous cells use up energy, leading to extreme tiredness (fatigue). People with advanced ovarian cancer may experience weight loss or gain due to fluid accumulation or appetite loss. Advanced ovarian cancer means the cancerous cells have spread to other parts of the body, such as the abdomen, lymph nodes, intestines, or further areas.
In addition to the early symptoms, people with advanced ovarian cancer may develop digestive symptoms like swollen belly, constipation, nausea, or pain. Doctors can drain the fluid accumulated in the abdomen due to ascites to reduce discomfort.
It is important to notify a doctor if symptoms of preexisting conditions change in a way that is out of the ordinary. Many conditions can cause these symptoms, but when the cause is cancer, they will typically be persistent and different from normal. Regular pelvic exams can help detect early signs of ovarian cancer.
[1] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/ovarian [2] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/ovarian-cancer [3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20355285 [4] American Cancer Society. (2021). Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer.html
Women's health and health-and-wellness resources, such as those provided by the National Cancer Institute, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Mayo Clinic, and American Cancer Society, offer valuable insights into understanding the symptoms of ovarian cancer, a medical-condition that primarily affects women. Signs of ovarian cancer often include persistent bloating, abdominal discomfort, changes in appetite or digestion, and other symptoms like early satiety, pelvic pain, increased urinary frequency, changes in menstruation, pain during sex, tiredness, back pain, and upset stomach or constipation. However, these symptoms can also be associated with other women's health conditions like gastrointestinal issues, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, menstrual-related symptoms, benign pelvic or abdominal conditions, or ovarian cysts. It is essential to consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen, to differentiate between these medical-conditions and early signs of ovarian cancer. Regular pelvic exams can help in detecting ovarian cancer at its early stages, leading to increased chances of successful treatment.
