Ovarian cancer symptoms: The common signs

OVARIAN cancer symptoms which are not always easy to recognise is when abnormal cells in the ovary begin to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way, and eventually form a growth

Almost 95 out of 100 women will survive their cancer for five years or more after they are diagnosed, if they are diagnosed at stage one, according to Cancer Research UK.

The NHS says: “The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be difficult to recognize, particularly early on.”

They’re often the same as symptoms of other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Persistent bloating, feeling full quickly, loss of appetite, and pelvic or abdominal pain are also signs to be aware of.

Occasionally there can be other symptoms. These include changes in bowel habits such as diarrhoea or constipation, as well as feeling very tired.

Some people will experience unexplained weight loss, which is also associated with ovarian cancer.

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The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends that if you have the following symptoms 12 or more times a month, your GP should arrange tests – especially if you’re are over 50:

1)    Swollen tummy (abdomen) or bloating

2)    Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite

3)    Pain in your abdomen

4)    Needing to wee more often or urgently

Cancer Research UK says: “You should see your doctor if you notice a change that isn’t normal for you or if you have any of the possible signs and symptoms of cancer.

“Even if you’re worried about what the symptom might be, don’t delay seeing them. Your worry is unlikely to go away if you don’t make an appointment. The symptom might not be due to cancer. But if it is, the earlier it’s picked up the higher the chance of successful treatment. You won’t be wasting your doctor’s time.”

The NHS notes that the exact cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, though some things may increase a woman’s risk of getting it. These include:

1)    Being over the age of 50

2)    A family history of ovarian or breast cancer

3)    Being overweight

4)    Smoking

5)    Lack of exercise

The health body adds: “Treatment will aim to cure the cancer whenever possible. If the cancer has spread too far to be cured, the aim is to relieve symptoms and control the cancer for as long as possible.”

“The earlier ovarian cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better the chance of a cure,” it continues.

The Mayo Clinic says that there’s no sure way to prevent ovarian cancer, though there may be ways to reduce your risk.