Symptoms of ovarian cancer: Fatigue, pelvic pain, bloating, weight loss are early warning signs

Symptoms of ovarian cancer: Irregular periods, heavier bleeding than usual, or other menstrual changes should be noted, especially if they deviate from normal patterns

Detecting ovarian cancer early presents challenges due to its nonspecific symptoms, which often resemble other conditions. Symptoms like pelvic pain, bloating, fatigue, and changes in appetite or weight can be mistaken for common issues. This ambiguity makes early diagnosis difficult, as these signs may not raise immediate concern. Additionally, there's no routine screening test for ovarian cancer, unlike other cancers.

Women and healthcare providers must be vigilant, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. Heightened awareness of risk factors, such as genetic predisposition and hormonal factors, is crucial. Despite the challenges, understanding these complexities can lead to earlier detection and improved outcomes.

Oncologist Rashmi Mittal highlights several important early warning signs that individuals should be aware of, as these could indicate the presence of ovarian cancer:

Pelvic or abdominal pain/cramping: Tumours in the pelvic region can cause pain resembling menstrual cramps. This discomfort, often persistent, should not be dismissed.

Feeling full quickly or lack of appetite: Ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, can lead to a sensation of fullness even with small meals. A sudden loss of appetite without explanation should be noted.

Indigestion, upset stomach, or nausea: Ongoing digestive issues, such as persistent indigestion or frequent nausea, should be evaluated.

Increased need to urinate: Pressure from tumours or fluid build-up can affect the bladder, causing a frequent urge to urinate or difficulty fully emptying the bladder.

Unexplained fatigue: Feeling excessively tired or fatigued, especially if it's not alleviated by rest, can be a subtle yet important symptom.

Pain or pressure in lower back/pelvis: Discomfort in the lower back or pelvis, unrelated to other known conditions or injuries, may indicate ovarian cancer.

Bloating and/or constipation: Persistent bloating, often accompanied by gas or constipation, could be a sign of underlying issues such as ovarian tumours.

Abdominal swelling or increased girth: Noticeable swelling or an increase in abdominal size, particularly if it's unexplained and persistent, should raise concern.

Pain during sexual intercourse: Experiencing pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, especially if it's a new or unexplained occurrence, warrants investigation.

Changes in menstrual cycles: Irregular periods, heavier bleeding than usual, or other menstrual changes should be noted, especially if they deviate from normal patterns.

Unexplained weight loss: Significant weight loss without changes in diet or exercise could signal an underlying health issue, including ovarian cancer.

Difficulty breathing (late-stage): In advanced stages, ovarian cancer can cause difficulty breathing as tumours grow and press against the lungs.

Risk factors:

• Older age, with the highest risk in women aged 50 to 60.
• Inherited gene mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2.
• Other gene mutations, such as those linked to Lynch syndrome.
• Family history of ovarian cancer.
• Estrogen hormone replacement therapy, especially with long-term and high-dose use.
• Age at menstruation onset and menopause, with early menstruation or late menopause increasing risk.