6 Commonly Overlooked Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Every year, around 7,400 women in the UK are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, but shockingly only 20% of cases are detected at an early stage. These statistics are alarming, but knowing your body’s signals and recognising six often overlooked symptoms could lead to earlier detection – or even save your life.
1. Feeling full quickly
Feeling full after a large meal is normal. But if you feel the same way after eating only a small amount of food, it could be a sign of fluid retention — a possible symptom of ovarian cancer. If this feeling persists or is accompanied by other unusual symptoms, consult a doctor.
2. Weight changes
Sudden, unexplained weight loss can be an early warning sign of ovarian cancer. As the disease progresses, cancer cells can affect metabolism, leading to rapid weight loss despite eating normally. In addition, ovarian tumors can cause loss of appetite or feeling full after eating small amounts of food.
3. Changes in the menstrual cycle
A scientific report revealed that 13% of patients cited bleeding as a symptom of ovarian cancer. Bleeding or spotting between periods or after menopause is a cause for concern. Also, any unusual changes in vaginal discharge that are different from usual can be a warning sign.
4. Changes in bowel movements
Ovarian cancer doesn’t just affect the bladder; the tumor can also press on the intestines, causing problems like indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea. You may also experience fatigue, back pain, unusual bleeding, discomfort, and unexpected weight loss or gain. Because ovarian cancer has a variety of symptoms, even one of them is a reason to see a doctor.
5. Abdominal bloating
According to the National Library of Medicine, bloating is the second most commonly reported symptom before a cancer diagnosis. This bloating may occur before or after meals, or be worse during menstruation. As the disease progresses, fluid can build up in the abdomen, leading to even more discomfort and bloating.
6. Frequent urination
Frequent urination may be a lesser-known symptom of ovarian cancer. As the tumor grows, it can press on the bladder, causing a constant feeling of needing to urinate. Some women also experience difficulty emptying their bladder or increased pressure in the pelvic area.
Source: nowiveseeeverything.club
THE CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE.
Seek advice from your doctor regarding your health and medical conditions.
This article is for informational purposes only. Do not self-medicate and always consult a qualified medical professional before applying any information from the text. The editorial team does not guarantee results and is not responsible for any damages resulting from its use.
