Ovarian cancer develops in a woman's ovaries and appears as a malignant tumor. Ovarian cancer has few symptoms in its early stages, but the survival rate increases if it's found early. Far too often, the cancer isn't detected until it has spread to other organs. The treatment plan for ovarian cancer depends on how far the cancer has spread, the current health status of the individual and personal considerations.
Surgery
According to the American Cancer Society, surgery for ovarian cancer has two main goals: staging and debulking. The surgeon stages the cancer to see if and how far the cancer has spread from the ovary. Staging typically requires the removal of the uterus, both ovaries and both fallopian tubes. Debulking consists of removing as much of the tumor as possible. Women who have successful debulking surgeries have a better prognosis than those left with larger tumors. Women of childbearing age who still want to have children only have the diseased ovary removed. The doctor closely watches the remaining ovary for signs of cancer, according to the Cleveland Clinic
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medication to kill cancer cells. The medication is administered either intravenously or by mouth. Once the medication enters into the bloodstream, it spreads throughout the body. Chemotherapy helps in treating cancer that has spread beyond the ovaries to other areas of the body, reports the American Cancer Society. Although chemotherapy medications kill cancer cells, they also damage some normal cells. Side effects occur and depend on the type of medication given, the amount taken and how long the treatment lasts. Common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea and vomiting, a loss of appetite, hair loss, an increased chance for infection and fatigue.
Radiation
Radiation treatment uses high energy x-rays to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. The radiation comes from a source outside of the body or from radioactive materials placed near the tumor. According to the American Cancer Society, radiation therapy rarely is used as the main source of treatment, but rather in combination with other treatments when necessary.
Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet helps the body cope with the side effects that develop during cancer treatment. MayoClinic.com recommends eating protein-rich foods as well as fruits and vegetables throughout the course of treatment. Healthy food provides the body with assistance against infections and healthy food helps to repair and build damaged tissue.
Exercise
Mild physical activity, such as walking or climbing stairs, can prevent the muscles from deteriorating. According to MayoClinic.com, exercise also promotes overall good health, helps prevent fatigue and depression and reduces the anxiety that often accompanies ovarian cancer.
