Ovarian cancer takes the lives of approximately 15,000 women in the United States each year. In the past ovarian cancer was considered a silent killer because of the lack of symptoms. However, Johns Hopkins reports that studies indicated that 95 percent of women experienced symptoms with early ovarian cancer. Early detection of ovarian cancer remains the key to long-term survival of this deadly disease. Regular check-ups with a health care provider and reporting symptoms quickly may lead to early detection and treatment of the disease.
Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction
Women commonly report urinary changes that consist of urgency to urinate, according to the Mayo Clinic. Women also experience trouble starting urination and frequent urination. Although reported less often, changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, occur with the presence of ovarian cancer. Immediate medical attention is needed if the inability to urinate or have a bowel movement occurs.
Gastrointestinal Upset
Signs of gastrointestinal upset vary from patient to patient. Some women report bloating. The Mayo Clinic reports that abdominal fullness or pressure occurs with ovarian cancer. Other symptoms of ovarian cancer include excess gas, loss of appetite, nausea and heart burn. These symptoms often occur in the early stages of ovarian cancer and should not be discounted if experienced.
Pain
Pain from ovarian cancer often results in late stages of the disease. Pain in the abdomen and/or low back are associated with ovarian cancer. Pain and tightness/pressure often accompany ovarian cancer due to tumor growth. Painful sexual intercourse may also occur. According to the "Core Curriculum of Oncology Nursing," pain low in the pelvis also occurs with the presence of ovarian cancer.
Various Symptoms
Johns Hopkins reports that commonly women will experience an increase in the size of their abdomen. Other symptoms that occur with the presence of ovarian cancer include weight loss, fatigue and vaginal bleeding. In cases of advanced ovarian cancer the tumor may be palpable and patients may experience shortness of breath.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Ovarian cancer: Symptoms
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: Ovarian Cancer Risk Factors and Symptoms
- "Core Cirriculum for Oncology Nursing"; Itano, J. Ph.D., Taoka, K. MSN; 2005
