8 Early Signs Of Ovarian Cancer, You Should Not Ignore

Ovarian cancer has been called “the silent killer”. Because the symptoms as in other types of cancer can appear when the disease is already advanced and difficult to treat. This type of cancer is the second most common form of abdominal cancer in women. But it causes a higher mortality rate because in almost all cases it is detected too late.

According to reports in recent years, only 50% of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer survive up to 5 years after initial diagnosis. This is because in many cases it is detected at an advanced stage. However, experts say that early detection of the disease increases life expectancy up to 95%.

Ovarian cancer can occur in women of all ages, but the risk increases from age 50 and up, and women in their 65s run the greatest risk of getting the diagnosis. It is important to learn about and know some of the symptoms that can alert us to possible ovarian cancer. Remember, these are red flags that should be examined by a specialist as it can also be related to other health issues.

Warning signs of ovarian cancer

The following symptoms have been linked to ovarian cancer, but may also be signs of other health problems. Keeping that in mind and identifying them can be the key to early detection of the disease. So one can receive timely treatment.

• Flatulence or swelling in the abdomen. Although this is a common symptom of a number of health problems, a swollen stomach and a swollen abdomen could indicate ovarian cancer. If you find that you often have this problem, it is best to see a doctor.
• Digestive symptoms. In addition to bloating in the stomach, symptoms such as indigestion, constipation, stomach cramps and discomfort, or any change in bowel habits are also warning lights.

• Pelvic pain: Pelvic pain can be a very important signal for this disease. If the pain is frequent and seems unexplained, it is best to consult a doctor and avoid soothing it with pain medication.
• Back pain: if you experience low back pain and cannot explain it, it may be another symptom of the disease.

• Frequent and uncontrolled urination. If you suddenly start to feel the urge to frequent urination and you can barely control it, it is possible that something is wrong. Usually, these regrets are accompanied by pain or a burning sensation during urination and frequent urination at short intervals. These symptoms may be signs of a weakness in the pelvic floor muscles, or it may also be clear symptoms of a urinary tract infection. However, it is important to see a doctor as it has been shown that it can also be common symptoms of ovarian cancer.

• Unexplained weight gain or loss:  Many women often feel very happy when they lose a lot of weight without any explanation, but they need to know that it is not normal and can be a sign that something is completely wrong in the body. The same is true when there is unexplained weight gain. In general, you may also experience a loss of appetite or a feeling of being full all the time.
• Fatigue: People may feel tired due to a variety of health issues and even stress. However, this symptom is also quite common when you suffer from ovarian cancer. You may feel tired, without energy and weak quite often, this is a sign that something is not right.
• Pain during intercourse: if you often feel pain instead of enjoying intercourse , consult your doctor, as it is also a common symptom of ovarian cancer.

Other symptoms to keep in mind

• Vaginal bleeding in postmenopausal women.

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Anemia
• Frequent abdominal pain.

Diagnosis of ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect because the symptoms usually do not show up in the early stages of the disease. However, if you experience any of the above symptoms  and go to your doctor, it can be diagnosed early with ultrasound, tomography (CT scan), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and a blood test called CA-125.