Ovarian cancer history and symptoms
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Historically ovarian cancer was called the “silent killer” because symptoms were not thought to develop until the chance of cure was poor. However, recent studies have shown this term is untrue and that some symptoms are much more likely to occur in women with ovarian cancer than women in the general population.
Symptoms
abnormal vaginal bleeding a lump that can be felt (palpable) in the pelvic or abdominal area need to urinate often (frequency) intense need to urinate (urgency) constipation changes to digestion (such as difficulty eating, feeling full after a small meal, heartburn, gas , indigestion or nausea) feeling of pressure in the pelvic or abdominal area fatigue pain in the legs, lower back, pelvis or abdomen bloating (swelling of the abdomen) painful intercourse Late signs and symptoms
Late signs and symptoms occur as the cancer grows larger or spreads to other parts of the body, including other organs.
buildup of fluid in the abdomen (ascites) buildup of fluid around the lungs (pleural effusion) weight loss bowel obstruction buildup of lymph fluid (lymphedema) in the legs