CANCER: SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF OVARIAN CANCER

Cancer is a widespread illness that has attracted great concern worldwide.

There are various types of cancer such as ovarian, lung, cervical cancer, kidney and prostate cancer.

Cancer patients usually go through a series of tests before treatment is commenced.

When it comes to ovarian cancer, there are a few major signs that you need to look out for to salvage the situation. These include:

1. Rapid weight loss
If you experience unexplained weight loss, you may need to go for a medical checkup.

However, people lose weight for many other reasons such as dieting. If you lose weight rapidly without any apparent reason, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

2. Abdominal pressure and pain
The development of ovarian cancer is likely to trigger discomfort in the abdomen since it greatly affects the pelvic area.

When ovarian cancer begins to develop, it occupies some abdominal space no wonder ovarian cancer patients may experience pelvic and abdominal pain.

3. Menstrual changes
One of the main indicators of ovarian cancer is a change in one’s menses.

Your menses may change in their flow and become heavier than usual.

This change may force you to obtain more sanitary towels since you may need to change them regularly.

If you note a change in your cycle, consult a doctor.

4. Menopausal bleeding
For women who have attained menopausal age, you should be alarmed if you experience bleeding and spotting.

This is abnormal since the ovaries are no longer fertile hence they no longer produce progesterone and estrogen that cause menstruation.

Menopausal bleeding is a sign that needs immediate medical care.

5. Pain during sex
Pain during intercourse can also be a sign of ovarian cancer.

Generally, painful sex is not a good sign. The pain is triggered when anything comes into contact with the cancerous cells.

Sex is thus likely to become painful in case you develop ovarian cancer.

6. Changes in bowel movement

Since ovarian cancer can affect the digestive system, patients have experienced changes in bowel movement.

One of the changes is the constant urge to urinate since the tumours affect the bladder capacity making one feel constantly pressed.

Ovarian cancer patients may also feel bloated and constipated because the tumour is likely to spread into the gastrointestinal tract.

7. Constant fatigue
Feeling tired occasionally is okay but if you are constantly tired or get tired easily, it could be a tell-tale sign of ovarian cancer.

You, therefore, need to see the doctor.