Ovarian cancer is a crippling and potentially life threatening medical condition that has a 93 percent 5-year survival rate, says the American Cancer Society. In fact, it is the fifth most common female cancer, says MedlinePlus. Symptoms of ovarian cancer include pelvic pain, bloating and stomach fullness. It can also cause nausea, menstrual irregularities, low back pain, fatigue, frequent urination and constipation, says the Mayo Clinic. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer is not without its numerous side effects.
Metastasis
Ovarian cancer typically starts in the ovaries (female reproductive organs responsible for releasing an egg). If left untreated, the abnormal ovarian cancer cells can infiltrate the lymph (fluid that carries cancer and white blood cells) and spread to different parts of your body. For example, ovarian cancer can spread to the lungs, brain, liver and bone and cause further destruction at those sites. This is called metastasis, and it makes ovarian cancer potentially lethal.
Ascites and Pleural Effusion
According to FreeMD.com, ovarian cancer can lead to ascites and pleural effusion. Ascites refers to a collection of fluid in your stomach. Symptoms of ascites include weight gain, a distended stomach and fatigue. Pleural effusion refers to an accumulation of fluid between your lungs and your chest cavity. Symptoms of a pleural effusion include sharp chest pain, trouble breathing or a cough. Sometimes, you may be asymptomatic.
Other Side Effects
According to the National Cancer Institute, ovarian cancer can cause pain, intestinal blockage, lower peripheral edema (swelling of your legs) and depression. Pain typically occurs when the cancer has spread to the bones. The pain can be so excruciating that your doctor may need to prescribe strong pain medications such as morphine. Ovarian cancer can spread to your intestines and prevent proper food digestion. This can lead to unintentional weight loss and malnutrition. Typically, your surgeon can unblock the intestines. Ovarian cancer can also cause fluid to seep into your legs. This can lead to extreme difficulty in walking and discomfort. Compression stockings, physical exercise, diuretic medications and surgery may help decrease the swelling. Lastly, ovarian cancer can cause profound depression. Symptoms of depression include overwhelming sadness, lack of interest, fatigue and loss of energy.
