What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer

Symptoms of ovarian cancer are usually not obvious in the early stages and are often ignored, causing many patients to develop into advanced stages when diagnosed. The main symptoms of ovarian cancer include weight loss, large amounts of abdominal fluid, and weight loss, but these symptoms may also be similar to other diseases.

1. Abdominal symptoms: Many patients with ovarian cancer experience bloating, abdominal pain, or abdominal discomfort. These symptoms are often mistaken for indigestion or gastrointestinal problems. Changes in the abdomen may be due to tumor growth or accumulation of ascites, which can cause abdominal pressure and discomfort.

2. Weight changes: Unintentional weight loss or gain are potential signs of ovarian cancer. Weight loss is usually due to the body consuming more energy to fight cancer cells, while weight gain may be due to the accumulation of ascites.

3. Digestive problems: Ovarian cancer patients often report digestive problems, such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or constipation. Because the ovaries are located close to the digestive tract, the presence of tumors may affect normal digestive function.

4. Urinary tract symptoms: Frequent urinary urgency or difficulty urinating may also be a manifestation of ovarian cancer. This is because the tumor may compress the bladder or urethra, causing urination problems.

5. Fatigue and weakness: Long-term unexplained fatigue and weakness are also common symptoms of ovarian cancer. Cancer cells consume a lot of energy in the body, causing patients to feel persistently tired.

6. Menstrual changes: Although ovarian cancer mainly occurs in postmenopausal women, changes in the menstrual cycle or irregular bleeding may also be one of its symptoms. If young women experience this, they should pay attention.

7. Difficulty breathing: In the late stages, ovarian cancer may cause breathing problems. This is usually due to the accumulation of abdominal fluid pressing on the lungs, or the spread of cancer cells to the lungs.

Early identification of ovarian cancer is crucial as it can significantly improve treatment effectiveness and survival rates. If you or someone you know experiences the above symptoms, especially if they persist or get worse, it is recommended to seek professional medical advice as soon as possible. Regular gynecological examinations and understanding family medical history are also important measures to prevent ovarian cancer.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and avoiding known risk factors, such as smoking and obesity, can also help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. By increasing awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, we can better protect the health of ourselves and our families.