Unlike breast or cervical cancer, ovarian cancer does not have a set screening test. Due to a lack of upfront ovarian cancer symptoms, it is difficult to detect ovarian cancer, especially in the early stages. In other words, the symptoms of ovarian cancer are subtle, but they are there. Once these early signs of ovarian cancer start to show, it is crucial to see your gynecologist at the earliest.
Amongst the most visible but subtle ovarian cancer symptoms is bloating. This is common in women, so no need to panic. You can feel bloated due to your diet, digestive problems, or hormonal changes. But if bloating is persistent, it could indicate something serious. Bloating and ovarian cancer are linked, and if this is something you are experiencing every day, it may be more than digestive discomfort.
You must understand the difference between ordinary bloating and early signs of ovarian cancer. This article explores the subtle symptoms, including persistent bloating causes, risk factors, and when you should seek medical advice.
Subtle Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
The sad part is that ovarian cancer does not present any apparent warning signs. But there are vague signs. The common symptoms include –
- The need for urgent or frequent urination is another sign that you should look out for. A growing tumour in the pelvis means your bladder is getting pressurised. This can mean a sudden and urgent need to urinate. If the stream is slow, you should meet your gynae.
- Missing your menstrual cycle is another ovarian cancer symptom you need to watch out for. This happens because ovaries produce estrogen, and if the ovaries are affected, the estrogen levels drop, causing you to miss your periods. Check if you are pregnant or not before worrying. If you start to bleed after going through menopause, you may need to worry. It is time to visit the gynecologist.
- Abdominal pain is a common sign of ovarian cancer. You will start to experience discomfort in your hips, pelvis, or abdomen. You may particularly find it discomforting during sex. There could be persistent back pain, and you experience frequent cycles of upset stomach and constipation. If this condition persists, consider consulting a doctor.
- Fatigue and low energy for no apparent reason can indicate ovarian cancer. This is because the tumour can cause a hormonal imbalance, making the patient feel exhausted even with a proper sleep schedule and quality.
- Bloating and ovarian cancer are closely linked. Fluid buildup, such as ascites, can cause you to feel bloated. Bloating can also occur for other reasons. It is best to have your case checked by a doctor to rule out cancer.
The Relationship Between Bloating And Ovarian Cancer
Bloating is very common in women, especially during or before their menstrual cycle. It can also happen due to your diet, stress, and lifestyle choices. This happens due to fluid buildup or ascites. The buildup, when associated with ovarian cancer, can occur due to various reasons. These include –
- When the cancer affects the peritoneum or the abdominal lining, the membrane can be stimulated to secrete excess fluid.
- When the cancer spreads to the liver, due to portal hypertension, ascitic fluid leaks from the liver and builds up around the stomach.
- When the cancerous tumour blocks the lymphatic nodes, the lymph drainage is affected, causing the fluid to accumulate around the stomach.
Bloating can cause the abdomen to swell and become distended. You may feel tightness around the abdomen, experience pain, and have indigestion, along with the need to pass gas.
Points to remember for bloating associated with ovarian cancer –
- It persists for weeks without relief
- It is accompanied by abdominal swelling
- It causes visible distension of the belly
- It occurs regardless of dietary changes or menstruation
Since bloating and ovarian cancer can be linked, you must consult with a doctor, especially if you experience this regularly.
Abdominal Pain and Ovarian Cancer
Abdominal or pelvic pain is another subtle ovarian cancer symptom. You need to understand the difference between cramps associated with menstruation and abdominal pain related to ovarian cancer.
This pain is
- Dull, persistent
- Happens even when you are not on your cycle
- Worsens over time
- Radiates to the back or thighs
- Accompanied by bloating, loss of appetite, swelling, and heaviness
Ovarian Cancer Risk Factors
Yes, there are subtle signs of ovarian cancer, like bloating and abdominal pain. But every patient suffering from bloating or abdominal pain issues is not at risk of developing ovarian cancer.
So what are the risk factors?
- Age – Ovarian cancer is common in women in their post-menopausal phase.
- Family history – Women with a strong family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
- Genetic mutations, specifically BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, increase the risk.
- Reproductive history – Women who have never gotten pregnant, had difficulty conceiving, or those who had their first child after 35 may have a higher risk
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) – Long-term use of HRT can increase susceptibility
- Endometriosis – Women with this condition are linked to a higher risk of ovarian cancer
- Obesity – Excess body fat causes a hormonal imbalance. This raises risk levels.
Understanding these ovarian cancer risk factors and assessing your personal risk factors helps you make informed decisions about screening and preventive measures.
When to See a Doctor for Bloating
If you start to notice the subtle signs and your risk factors are high, it would be ideal to visit the doctor urgently.
Since bloating is common, it can be challenging to decide when bloating requires medical attention. Visit a doctor when –
- Bloating is happening frequently
- You experience abdominal swelling
- There is sudden weight gain in the stomach area
- You experience persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
- You find it difficult to eat or start feeling full quickly
- You feel a frequent or urgent need to urinate
- You experience a combination of the above symptoms
The doctor will advise pelvic exams, ultrasounds, blood tests (like CA-125), or refer to a gynecologic oncologist for further evaluation.
Ovarian cancer may be difficult to detect early, but awareness is the first line of defense. Pay close attention to ovarian cancer symptoms like persistent bloating, abdominal pain, and digestive changes.
References:
https://www.oregoncancer.com/blog/ovarian-cancer-symptoms-you-shouldnt-miss
https://www.moffitt.org/cancers/ovarian-cancer/faqs/why-does-ovarian-cancer-cause-bloating/