Overview of Ovarian Cancer
The cancer of the ovary is known as ovarian cancer. The ovaries are reproductive glands of the woman, placed one on either side of the body. These ovaries secrete hormones like oestrogen and progesterone. Ovaries also produce ova (egg) required for fertilization. The symptoms produced by ovarian cancer are vague in early stages. They are often misinterpreted as symptoms of other illnesses. Around 20% of women are diagnosed in early stages of ovarian cancer. The remaining percentage often mistake it to normal indigestion problems.
Ovarian cancer is of three types namely, epithelial tumours, stromal tumours, and germ cell tumours. The type of ovarian cancer is based on the cells they originate from. Several risk factors determine the possibility of you getting ovarian cancer. Some risk factors like old-age, family history of ovarian cancer, obesity, history of breast, colon or other cancer, hormonal therapies, etc. may predispose for the development of ovarian cancer.
If the cancer is left undiagnosed, it may invade the adjacent organs and tissues, resulting in metastatic ovarian cancer. Earlier, it was named ‘silent disease’ due to the vague nature of symptoms. For Home delivery of cancer medicines Delhi, check 3MEDS.
The Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Having awareness about the possible signs and symptoms will guide you to identify your symptoms. Early recognition will prevent the advancement of cancer to the adjacent tissues. Although, symptoms mimic other diseases, note down the frequency of symptoms. If the frequency is more than 12 times per month, you should consult your gynaecologist immediately.
The common symptoms include,
· Bloating which is often severe
· Pain in the pelvic region and abdomen
· Reduced intake of diet or early filling of tummy
· Persistent tendency to pee
· Frequent urination
These symptoms are similar to many other diseases which requires further investigations to confirm the cause for these symptoms. Majority women will overlook these symptoms. There are chances they may restore to healthy lifestyle habits to relieve the symptoms and avoid consultation with the doctor. Do not turn blind eye to your symptoms and talk to your doctor.
Other symptoms of ovarian cancer are,
· Stomach upset
· Extreme fatigue
· Pain in the back
· Changes in bowel movements
· Abdominal swelling
· Weight loss
· Pain, during intercourse
· Menstrual changes such as heavy or irregular bleeding
· Increase in the waist measurement
· Heartburn
· Indigestion
· Nausea
· Unusual discharge from vagina or bleeding, especially after menopause
Can ovarian cyst be cancerous?
Ovarian cyst are benign which consists of cavity or sac filled with fluid. These are non-cancerous, seldom, they may undergo cancerous changes. Cysts are normal and they disappear on their own. If you develop ovarian cyst after menopause, then you should seek your gynaecologist. Cysts after menopause are unlikely and may be malignant.
Symptoms of malignant ovarian cysts:
· Pain in the pelvis
· Vomiting or nausea
· Painful periods, pain may appear before or after the start of periods.
· Abdominal pressure, swelling
· Aching of thighs and lower back which is dull
· Difficulty in urination
· Bleeding which is abnormal
If these symptoms persist, you require medical help to get early diagnosis.
When to approach doctor?
If the above mentioned symptoms are new to you, if these symptoms repeat more than 12 times a month, or the symptoms do not disappear despite trying exercise, healthy diet, laxatives, etc. in these cases, you are strongly recommended visiting your doctor.
The history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer in the family is more likely to put risk on you. Get screened if there is a history in family.
How ovarian cancer can be prevented?
There are no verified measures to prevent ovarian cancer however, some measures may reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer such as
· Breastfeeding
· Pregnancy
· Intake of oral contraceptives
· Permanent birth control methods like tubectomy, vasectomy.
What are the treatment options for ovarian cancer?
3MEDS-Anti cancer medicine supplier Delhi, lists following treatment options for ovarian cancer.
· Surgery
· Chemotherapy
· Radiotherapy
· Targeted therapy
· Immunotherapy
· Hormonal therapy
Outlook of ovarian cancer
Every cancer is unique and the outlook depends on the overall health status of the individual, risk factors, lifestyle, etc. moreover, the stage of the cancer is very important to determine outlook. Cancers diagnosed in early stages have around 90% success rate whereas, the number of ovarian cancers diagnosed early are very low. Therefore, stay aware of the symptoms to get yourself screened. You can opt online medicine order in Delhi for more convenience.