Most of the time, it is difficult to diagnose ovarian cancer, especially in the early stages because most of the symptoms are similar to other health problems.
It is advisable for everyone to see a doctor, in case, you experience unexplained abdominal symptoms, which lasts for more than two to three weeks.
Early signs of ovarian cancer
As said above, recognizing the symptoms of ovarian cancer is difficult as most of them are common among people on a day-to-day basis. The symptoms, which are mostly associated with ovarian cancer usually develop in the later stages of the condition. The symptoms of ovarian cancer put pressure on the balder, uterus, and rectum, which helps in recognizing the chances of Ovarian Cancer.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer:
- Bloating
- Unexplained abdominal pain
- Lack of appetite
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- The constant need to urinate more frequently
- Unexplained pressure on the pelvis
- Unexplained exhaustion
- Constipation
- Back pain
People tend to ignore some of the symptoms as people think that these symptoms might occur due to other health conditions. Therefore, they tend to delay their visit to the doctors, which leads to a serious problem.
Keep in mind, if you experience any of these symptoms for more than two or three weeks, then immediately visit the doctor.
Some people who are likely to develop ovarian cancer than other people include:
- Someone with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Someone who have Lynch syndrome
- Never being pregnant
- Obesity
- Someone who consumes fertility medications
- Most cases develop after menopause
People, who have a family history of cancer or any other medical problem, should get a medical checkup occasionally. Moreover, one also needs to be constantly in touch with their gynecologists to notice any major changes in the body. To avoid such situations, a regular medical checkup is recommended by every doctor. This also helps in recognizing any health hazard beforehand and starts the treatment before the situation gets worse.
Reasons that may lessen the general risk of developing ovarian cancer include:
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Using oral birth control pills for at least five years
- Taking reproductive system surgeries
Diagnosis of ovarian cancer
The first and foremost step to recognize the problem of ovarian cancer is a CT scan. Moreover, a doctor may ask some of the common and basic questions such as:
- How long you are facing the pain
- What kind of medications you have taken to reduce the pain
- How often you feel the pain
- Ask some questions on your medical history
Another test, a doctor might perform is a pelvic exam to see if the ovaries are swollen, bloated, or if there is any liquid in the abdomen. A doctor might order additional testing if:
- If the doctor notices any abnormalities during the pelvic exam
- Unnecessary and unexplained pain near the pelvic area
- You and your family medical history
As the symptoms of ovarian cancer are similar to many other, less dangerous conditions, many women overlook the signs.
Therefore, as soon as you realize that you are experiencing pain more than two to three weeks; talk with a doctor as soon as possible.
Also Read: 5 Early Warning Signs of Ovarian Cancer women should Never Ignore