Ovarian cancer is often called the "silent killer" because its symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for common digestive or menstrual issues. However, recognising early warning signs is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Here are some key symptoms that should never be ignored:

Persistent Abdominal Bloating

Occasional bloating is normal, but if you experience frequent or prolonged bloating without an obvious cause, it may indicate fluid buildup or tumor growth in the abdominal cavity. Persistent bloating lasting more than a few weeks should be evaluated.

Pelvic or Abdominal Pain

Unexplained and persistent pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region that does not go away with regular remedies should be evaluated by a doctor. This pain may result from ovarian tumors pressing against nearby organs or causing inflammation.

Feeling Full Quickly or Loss of Appetite

A sudden change in eating habits, such as feeling full after eating small amounts, can indicate changes in the digestive system caused by ovarian cancer. Tumors can interfere with digestion, leading to reduced appetite and early satiety.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without any changes in diet or exercise can be a red flag for several health conditions, including ovarian cancer. If you are losing weight rapidly without trying, consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying causes.

Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits

Frequent urination, constipation, or diarrhoea without an apparent reason could be linked to ovarian cancer, especially if these symptoms persist. The growing tumor may exert pressure on the bladder or intestines, leading to these changes.

Fatigue

Ongoing fatigue that does not improve with rest might signal an underlying health issue, including ovarian cancer. Cancer-related fatigue is often more severe and persistent than normal tiredness, affecting daily activities.

Menstrual Irregularities

Unusual menstrual cycles, including heavier or lighter bleeding than normal, or postmenopausal bleeding, should always be checked by a doctor. Hormonal imbalances caused by ovarian cancer can lead to irregular periods.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Since ovarian cancer symptoms can be vague, many women ignore them or attribute them to less serious conditions. However, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial if symptoms persist for more than a few weeks. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. If you experience any of these symptoms, consulting a doctor can help rule out serious conditions and ensure timely intervention.

How Ovarian Cancer is Diagnosed

Diagnosing ovarian cancer involves multiple tests to confirm its presence and stage. Doctors may perform:

  • Pelvic Exam – A physical examination to detect abnormalities in the ovaries.
  • Ultrasound – Imaging to visualize ovarian tumors or cysts.
  • Blood Tests (CA-125 Test) – Measures levels of the CA-125 protein, which may be elevated in ovarian cancer.
  • CT Scan or MRI – Detailed imaging tests to assess tumor size and spread.
  • Biopsy – A tissue sample taken to confirm cancerous cells.

Early diagnosis is key to improving survival rates, as symptoms often appear in advanced stages.

Stages of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is categorized into four stages:

  • Stage 1: Cancer is confined to one or both ovaries.
  • Stage 2: Cancer has spread to nearby pelvic structures.
  • Stage 3: Cancer has spread to the abdominal lining or lymph nodes.
  • Stage 4: Cancer has spread to distant organs such as the liver or lungs.

Ovarian Cancer Treatment Options

Treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the stage, type, and overall health of the patient. A combination of therapies is often used to achieve the best possible outcome.

Surgery

Surgical treatment is usually the first step in managing ovarian cancer. The type of surgery depends on the cancer stage and whether fertility preservation is a concern.

  • Early-Stage Ovarian Cancer Surgery: In cases where cancer is limited to one ovary, doctors may perform a unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, removing only the affected ovary and fallopian tube. This is considered for younger patients who wish to preserve fertility.
  • Advanced Ovarian Cancer Surgery: A more extensive procedure, called debulking surgery, removes both ovaries, the fallopian tubes, uterus, and any visible cancer in the abdominal cavity. This is done to reduce the tumor burden before chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It is often administered after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

  • Intravenous (IV) Chemotherapy: Administered through a vein, this method allows the drugs to circulate throughout the body and target cancer cells.
  • Intraperitoneal (IP) Chemotherapy: Involves delivering chemotherapy drugs directly into the abdominal cavity to target cancer cells more precisely.
  • Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: Sometimes given before surgery to shrink tumors and make surgical removal easier.
  • Adjuvant Chemotherapy: Given after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically attack cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells. Some targeted therapy options for ovarian cancer include:

  • PARP Inhibitors: These drugs block enzymes that cancer cells need to repair DNA damage, leading to their destruction. Common PARP inhibitors include olaparib, rucaparib, and niraparib.
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors: These medications, such as bevacizumab, prevent tumors from forming new blood vessels, thereby restricting their growth.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is rarely used for ovarian cancer but may be considered in specific cases where cancer has spread to localized areas. High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is an emerging treatment approach that boosts the body's immune system to fight cancer. While still being researched for ovarian cancer, certain immunotherapy drugs have shown promising results in clinical trials.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is sometimes used for specific types of ovarian cancer, such as stromal tumors. This therapy works by blocking hormones that fuel cancer cell growth. Medications like aromatase inhibitors and tamoxifen may be prescribed.

Conclusion

Ovarian cancer symptoms are often subtle, making it essential to listen to your body and seek medical advice when something feels unusual. Early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve outcomes. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, don't hesitate to consult a doctor for further evaluation.