Due to the fact that by the time the disease was discovered, it was already too late to get effective therapies, ovarian cancer was for a long time regarded as a silent killer. Only 20% of ovarian cancers are discovered before the disease has started to spread beyond the ovaries. This is mostly due to the fact that many of the ovarian cancer symptoms are quite similar to those of many other prevalent illnesses.
The ovaries, which are found on the sides of the uterus, are where one or both cancerous tumours first appear. One tiny, almond-shaped ovary, one on each side of the uterus, is in charge of producing eggs and releasing them into the fallopian tubes. Progesterone and oestrogen, two female hormones that tend to rise before and during ovulation, are also produced by the ovaries. It’s possible that the tumours develop as a result of this surge in hormones.
One of the most fundamental aspects of life is reproduction. There are several factors that may change this, however. Ovarian cancer is one of the things that may change this. The female body’s reproductive system, especially the ovaries, is attacked by ovarian cancer. Everyone should be aware of ovarian cancer and the typical ovarian cancer symptoms that are associated with getting this form of cancer as it is the fifth greatest cause of cancer deaths in women.
Cancer Of The Ovaries Symptoms
Early ovarian cancer may not exhibit any signs at all. However, when the disease progresses and spreads, a variety of symptoms appear. In the back, legs, and pelvis, pressure and discomfort are typical ovarian cancer symptoms. A large or bloated belly, nausea, indigestion, gas, diarrhoea, constipation, and exhaustion or weakness are some signs of this illness.
There are a few less typical symptoms that may indicate ovarian cancer. Breathlessness, frequent urination, and copious virginal bleeding, including heavy periods and bleeding after menopause, are some of these symptoms. However, the most, if not all, of these symptoms are exceedingly vague, making it very difficult to determine whether you have ovarian cancer until your doctor actually detects it.
Ovarian cancer is diagnosed by doctors using a variety of techniques. Your doctor may push on your abdomen during a physical examination to check for any indications of tumours or an unusual fluid accumulation. A pelvic exam might also be done by a doctor. The doctor checks the ovaries and adjacent organs during this examination for cancers and any abnormalities. A blood test may also be required by your doctor. Several different chemicals are examined in the blood tests, including CA-125. Most ovarian malignant cells contain a chemical called CA-125.
It is most certainly ovarian cancer if the CA-125 level is unusually high. Detecting ovarian cancer tumours via ultrasound is another method. The internal organs of the pelvis may be precisely mapped out using ultrasound technology. The search for malignant cells in tissue or fluid is another function for biopsies.
Despite the fact that the ovarian cancer symptoms are non-specific, being aware of them is crucial and may potentially save your life. If you have any of these symptoms, or you fear that you may, it is imperative that you see your doctor right once. Early detection of cancer is crucial since it facilitates treatment and improves survival rates. Talk to your doctor about the numerous treatment choices you have if you do have cancer.