Ovarian Cancer - The Scary Connection To Height And Weight

That scary fact is, in large part, due to a lack of early symptoms, combined with lower awareness of this type of cancer. Ovarian cancer is sometimes referred to as a silent killer, because many of its symptoms are so mild that they go unnoticed, until the cancer has already spread. Symptoms of ovarian cancer commonly resemble digestive disorders and bladder conditions. This means that they can easily be mistaken for harmless conditions or dismissed as nothing at all.

Some common ovarian cancer symptoms that women everywhere should watch out for include:

• abdominal pressure or bloating,

• pelvic pain or discomfort,

• nausea,

• persistent gas, indigestion, constipation,

• frequent urination,

• loss of appetite and feelings of fullness.

Symptoms can also include:

• lower back pain,

• persistent fatigue,

• tightening of clothes in the abdominal or waist area.

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, rather than ignoring them, make an appointment with your doctor. If there is nothing wrong, you will be reassured. If further investigation finds a problem, you can start treatment in a timely manner — which, in the case of ovarian cancer, boosts survival rates greatly.

 

Additional Risk Factors

In addition to the risk factors listed above, other risk factors for ovarian cancer include a family history of ovarian cancer and a prior history of cancer of the breasts, rectum, colon or uterus. Advanced age is a risk factor for ovarian cancer, which often develops after a woman reaches menopause.

Inherited Gene Mutations

A very small percentage of women who develop ovarian cancer have an inherited gene mutation that predisposes them to the condition. There are 2 genes that are linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer, known as the breast cancer gene 1 and breast cancer gene 2.Their names are associated with breast cancer because they were originally recognized in women with a family history of breast cancer. Women who have these gene mutations are also at an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Calling Your Doctor

If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, or if you suspect that you may be at risk for ovarian cancer, schedule an appointment with your health care provider. Your doctor will perform a pelvic exam and a vaginal ultrasound to check the condition of your uterus, cervix and ovaries.

If your doctor suspects that you may have ovarian cancer, surgery to remove and analyze tissue samples may be required. Tissue sample results will confirm a diagnosis and disclose the stage of the cancer, which will help determine the course of action that will be most effective for treatment.

Emotional Support

Receiving a diagnosis of ovarian cancer can bring with it a host of emotional issues, including anxiety, fear, grief, worry and depression. To help alleviate some of your fears, speak with your doctor and take steps to educate yourself about all of the details of your condition. Having an in-depth understanding of what is going on in your body and what techniques will be employed to treat it can take away some of the anxiety and fear associated with the unknown. Enlist the help of a good friend or family member to accompany you on your visits and during treatment sessions.

Consider joining a support group where you can meet other women who are going through the same thing as you. Being able to discuss your condition with women who may be experiencing the same symptoms can help to relieve stress and anxiety. Be sure to take time for yourself and avoid additional stress as much as possible.