By Dr. Sashanka Shekar Das, Medical Oncologist, MBBS, MD, DM Medical Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Kolkata
Maintaining gynaecological health is essential for women’s overall well-being. By staying informed and adopting a proactive approach, women can detect and manage potential issues early. Regular check-ups, open communication with healthcare providers, and awareness of symptoms are crucial steps in this process. Prioritizing gynaecological health empowers women to lead vibrant, healthy lives and take charge of their wellness.
Ovarian cancer, in particular, is detected only after it has spread within the pelvis and abdomen. This silent disease seldom shows specific signs and symptoms in its initial stages. However, it is crucial for women to identify the indicators that their ovary may be at risk. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being vigilant about changes in your body are essential for early detection and effective treatment.
Symptoms To Look Out For –
Here are twelve symptoms that require special and immediate attention:
• Abdominal Bloating: This involves a feeling of fullness or tightness in the stomach area, often accompanied by visible swelling or distention. Bloating can result from various factors, such as overeating, gas, constipation, and underlying medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or ovarian cancer.
• Pelvic Pain: Discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis region can stem from multiple causes, including menstrual cramps, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and conditions affecting the reproductive organs.
• Frequent Urination: Women may experience the need to urinate more often when ovarian cancer cells grow on the outside of the bladder wall or when ascites in the pelvis compresses the bladder.
• Loss of Appetite: A common symptom of ovarian cancer, it often includes feeling full quickly and having difficulty finishing even modest meals.
• Fatigue: Extreme tiredness or exhaustion can be caused by cancer altering normal protein and hormone levels, which are linked to inflammatory processes in the body.
• Back Pain: Severe lower back discomfort that interferes with sleep can be linked to ovarian cancer, primarily caused by fluid gathering in the pelvis and causing discomfort in the lower back tissues.
• Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Pain in the upper abdomen, also known as indigestion or dyspepsia, can be an early symptom of ovarian cancer.
• Changes in Bowel Habits: While constipation is a common issue, unexplained, persistent constipation, or difficulty passing stool could be a cause for concern, especially if it’s new.
• Irregular Menstruation: Changes in your menstrual cycle, such as periods arriving earlier or later than usual, can be a sign of ovarian cancer. This may also include unusually heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods.
• Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Bleeding after menopause or during sexual intercourse can be a cause of ovarian cancer.
• Unexpected Weight Loss: Rapid, unexplained weight loss without changes in diet or exercise can be a sign of ovarian cancer. This can occur as the body prioritizes resources to combat cancer cells.
• Shortness of Breath: As ovarian cancer progresses, fluid accumulation in the abdomen can push against the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
How to Detect Ovarian Cancer
Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular gynaecological exams, and discuss any unusual symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Know Your Family History: Be aware of your family medical history, as genetic predisposition can increase your risk.
Ultrasounds and Imaging: If you have symptoms, your doctor may recommend ultrasounds or other imaging tests to check for abnormalities.
Blood Tests: Certain blood tests, like the CA-125 test, can help detect ovarian cancer, especially in those with a high risk.
Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Taking Action
Early detection of ovarian cancer is crucial for successful treatment outcomes. By recognizing and paying attention to these often subtle and unusual symptoms, women can take proactive steps towards seeking medical advice and potentially life-saving interventions. Regular check-ups, staying informed about your body, and not ignoring persistent symptoms are essential in the fight against ovarian cancer. Remember, early detection is key to improving survival rates and maintaining a healthy life.
