Ovarian cancer is a difficult disease to diagnose because it usually does not cause symptoms in the early stages. There are several factors that increase the risk of ovarian cancer among women. Factors such as family history, genetic mutations, and hormonal treatments may affect the likelihood of this cancer occurring. However, identifying risk factors through regular health checks and genetic tests can increase the chance of treatment by providing early diagnosis.
What is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries and is usually seen in women. This cancer occurs when cells in the ovaries grow abnormally. Often the symptoms can be vague in the early stages and therefore difficult to diagnose. Ovarian cancer usually shows symptoms such as abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, urination difficulties, and digestive problems in the advanced stages. Early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment options and prognosis. The diagnosis and treatment process usually includes methods such as surgical intervention, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
What causes ovarian cancer?
Although the exact cause of ovarian cancer is not known clearly, many factors are thought to be effective. Individuals with a family history of ovarian cancer may have an increased risk. Some genetic mutations may increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer usually occurs in postmenopausal women. The risk of ovarian cancer may increase with age.
As the number of ovulations increases throughout the reproductive years, the risk of ovarian cancer may increase due to long-term effects on hormones. Factors such as fertility problems, nulliparity, or pregnancy at a later age may increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Factors such as smoking, obesity, birth control methods used, and hormone replacement therapy may also affect risk.
When does ovarian cancer show symptoms?
Ovarian cancer symptoms can often be vague or mild in the early stages of the disease. Therefore, patients often do not notice or ignore the symptoms. However, symptoms of ovarian cancer may become more evident in later stages. In order to understand ovarian cancer, it is necessary to know the symptoms of ovarian cancer. Symptoms of ovarian cancer may be as follows:
- Sudden swelling or feeling of pressure in the abdominal area.
- Chronic or persistent abdominal pain, discomfort in the pelvic area.
- Digestive problems such as loss of appetite, indigestion, constipation or diarrhea.
- Having trouble urinating, frequent urination, difficulty in holding urine.
- Weakness, weight loss, loss of appetite, constant feeling of tiredness.
These symptoms usually occur in the advanced stages of ovarian cancer. In case of any symptoms or concerns, it is important to see a healthcare professional and have the necessary tests done. For diagnosis, doctors may use a variety of methods, including physical examination, imaging tests (ultrasound, CT, MRI), and blood tests.
What is the biggest symptom of ovarian cancer?
The biggest symptom of ovarian cancer is usually an abnormal swelling or growth in the abdominal area. This symptom is frequently seen in most patients and may be a distinctive finding noticed in the advanced stages of ovarian cancer. Sudden or increasing swelling or pressure in the abdominal area, discomfort caused by tight clothing, or a significant change in the abdominal area may indicate this condition. However, this symptom is not limited to ovarian cancer and abdominal bloating can also occur in many other conditions. Therefore, in case of any symptoms or concerns, it is important to contact a healthcare professional and have a detailed evaluation.
Where does ovarian cancer cause pain?
Ovarian cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages, or symptoms may be mild. However, in later stages, ovarian cancer can cause pain in the pelvic area or around the abdomen. Because the ovaries are located in the lower abdomen, cancer can cause a feeling of pressure, discomfort, or pain in this area. However, in some cases, this pain may spread to other abdominal organs and may cause symptoms such as back or waist pain.
Pain and discomfort associated with ovarian cancer often become more pronounced in the advanced stages. However, signs and symptoms may vary from person to person, so it is important to consult a healthcare professional in case of any doubt or concern.
Do ovarian cysts cause cancer?
Ovarian cysts are generally benign (non-cancerous) formations. However, in some rare cases, ovarian cysts can become cancerous. Most ovarian cysts are functional cysts, such as follicular or luteal cysts. These types of cysts usually occur due to hormonal changes and do not usually require treatment. However, sometimes more complex and larger cysts may occur. Such conditions may include conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Another type of ovarian cysts that can become cancerous is dermoid cysts. Although dermoid cysts are generally benign, they can have strange structures that contain hair, skin and other types of tissue. Dermoid cysts rarely become cancerous, but it is important to consider this possibility. If a woman’s ovarian cyst is suspected to be cancerous, the doctor usually orders advanced imaging tests (for example, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI) and may sometimes perform a biopsy. Biopsy results help the doctor determine whether the cyst is benign or cancerous.