Ovarian Cancer Symptoms Problems like flatulence, gas, indigestion or acidity are quite common these days. Often people ignore them considering them as eating disorders and take some normal medicine when needed. But when this problem starts happening again and again, persists for a long time or starts suddenly without any apparent reason, then it is important to be a little cautious. Some early symptoms of ovarian cancer may also appear like common stomach problems. This is the reason why its identification is often delayed. However, these symptoms do not mean cancer, as there can be many other reasons behind them. Nevertheless, it is very important to pay attention to the continuous changes taking place in the body and get checked by a doctor if necessary.
Why can it be difficult to recognize the early symptoms of ovarian cancer?
The early signs of ovarian cancer are not always obvious. Many times the changes in the body are so slow that women dismiss them as the tiredness of daily life or gas. The problem becomes significant when new symptoms appear more frequently or last longer than before. It is not right to postpone such changes for a long time by considering them as just a normal digestive problem.
If you have frequent flatulence, do not ignore it.
Bloating can occur due to many reasons. This can also happen due to overeating, gas, constipation or certain foods. But if the stomach feels bloated again and again and there is no clear reason for it, then it is important to pay attention to it. Possible symptoms associated with ovarian cancer may also include persistent or recurring bloating. Especially when this problem did not exist earlier and is now troubling you continuously.
Pay attention if you feel full after eating just a little.
If you start feeling full even after eating less food than usual, then this is also a change that should not be ignored. Many women wonder “Why did I suddenly lose my appetite?” If there is a severe loss of appetite and heaviness in the stomach together, it could be a sign of a problem in the ovaries.
Do not ignore persistent acidity and indigestion as just gas.
Acidity and indigestion are very common problems. These problems can also occur due to wrong eating habits, too spicy food, irregular eating or many other reasons. Therefore, occasional acidity is not in itself a sign of any serious disease. But if you have persistent indigestion or acidity and are not getting relief despite normal precautions or medicines, talk to your doctor.
Also notice stomach pain or discomfort
Possible symptoms of ovarian cancer may also include pain, pressure, or discomfort around the abdomen or pelvis. This problem may remain continuous or may be felt repeatedly. However, there can be many other reasons for pain in the stomach or pelvis. Problems related to periods, ovarian cyst, infection and digestive problems can also be the reason for this. Therefore, instead of panicking after seeing pain, it is more important to consult a doctor if it persists.
Do not ignore changes in stool and urine habits.
Sometimes changes in stool and urine habits may also be seen in women associated with ovarian cancer. Suddenly feeling the need to pass urine frequently, difficulty in controlling urine or sudden constipation may also be related to the health of the ovaries.
If symptoms persist for three weeks or more, consult a doctor.
If problems like flatulence, indigestion, acidity, early filling of stomach or stomach discomfort persist for three weeks or more, do not ignore it. Similarly, if any symptom is coming back again and again after getting cured, it is important to consult a doctor. If the problem returns even after getting relief for some time from antacids or other common medicines, then it is not right to continue taking the medicine on your own for a long time. The doctor may recommend necessary tests based on the symptoms and your medical history.
Are routine screening tests available for ovarian cancer?
There is currently no routine screening test available for early detection of ovarian cancer in normal-risk women that can be used reliably in all women. This is why it becomes important to be aware of the new and continuous changes taking place in the body. If a woman shows such symptoms, the doctor may recommend pelvic examination, ultrasound or other tests depending on the situation. If there is a family history of ovarian or some other type of cancer, it is also important to inform the doctor about it.
Input By : Dr. Parminder Kaur, Consultant Gynecologic Oncologist, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi
Input By : Dr. Apoorva Gupta, Senior Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rosewalk Rainbow Children’s Hospital
FAQ
What are the earliest symptoms of ovarian cancer?
Its initial symptoms include persistent flatulence, feeling full after eating little, pain in the stomach or pelvic area and frequent urination.
What is the difference between the symptoms of acidity and ovarian cancer?
Common acidity gets cured in 2-3 days with medicines and proper diet, whereas symptoms associated with ovarian cancer persist for more than 3 weeks.
Can ultrasound detect ovarian cancer?
Yes, through pelvic ultrasound the doctor can identify ovarian formations, cysts or any abnormal lumps.
When should one contact a doctor in case of ovarian cancer?
If symptoms of abdominal swelling, bloating, indigestion or pain persist for 3 weeks or more, a doctor should be contacted immediately.
Are there any regular screening tests for ovarian cancer?
No, there is no routine screening test available for ovarian cancer, so being aware of the symptoms is the primary means of identification.