Ovarian cancer symptoms mimic symptoms of several other conditions, which is one reason that it is so difficult to diagnose. However, the American Cancer Society has determined that there are some specific symptoms that are characteristic of ovarian cancer, and that women with these symptoms should always be checked to rule out that possibility. While these are common symptoms of ovarian cancer, the key is that once they develop they will continue, and eventually worsen.
Abdominal Symptoms
The most common abdominal symptoms are abdominal bloating and pressure. The bloating will be accompanied by a feeling of fullness, and as time progresses, swelling will be obvious. This feeling of abdominal fullness can also cause a loss of appetite. The Mayo Clinic reports that there will also be an uncomfortable feeling, or pressure, in the pelvic region. Other symptoms in the abdomen are gas and nausea.
Bladder Symptoms
Ovarian cancer causes symptoms that affect the bladder as well. These symptoms include the need to urinate frequently and urgently. The bladder pressure is so strong that there is no time to wait before finding relief. The pressure, and urinary urgency, will not subside, but will increase over time as the cancer progresses, even causing one to wake in the middle of the night to urinate. Often, especially as we age, it is not unusual for women to have to get up in the night to use the bathroom, which can make this symptom one that is easily overlooked. The American Cancer Society reports that bladder symptoms are some of the common, early symptoms of ovarian cancer, and therefore they should not be ignored, especially if they occur in conjunction with any of the other common symptoms.
Pain Symptoms
Pain is a common symptom of ovarian cancer, although it is not necessarily an early sign. Pain often becomes more frequent after the cancer has grown and progressed. The New York Times Health Guide reports that some of the pain associated with ovarian cancer is lower back pain, and that this pain will gradually become worse once it has begun. Pain is also reported in the abdominal region, as well as the pelvic region. The Mayo Clinic reports that women that have been found to have ovarian cancer have also reported pelvic pain during sexual intercourse.
Other Symptoms
Other common symptoms reportedly associated with ovarian cancer, as listed by the NY Times Health Guide, are unexplained weight loss or weight gain, fatigue, changes in the menstrual cycle, and an excess of hair growth on the body. Other changes involve the digestive system, such as vomiting and nausea, and even bowel habit changes, usually resulting in constipation.
If you or a loved one experience these common ovarian cancer symptoms, ask your physician about being tested for ovarian cancer.
