What Are the Early Signs of Ovarian Cancer?

Early signs of ovarian cancer may include abdominal bloating, abdominal mass, abnormal vaginal bleeding, lower back pain, and fatigue. These symptoms may indicate underlying health issues. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for evaluation and treatment.

1. Abdominal Bloating

Abdominal bloating may be caused by gastrointestinal dysfunction due to tumor compression on surrounding tissues and organs or intestinal obstruction caused by the tumor itself. Symptoms of bloating typically occur in the lower abdomen and may be accompanied by abdominal discomfort and indigestion.

2. Abdominal Mass

An abdominal mass is primarily caused by space-occupying lesions due to tumor cell proliferation, which can be felt when touched in the abdomen. The mass is usually located in the pelvic cavity and may be accompanied by pain or pressure.

3. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

Abnormal vaginal bleeding is caused by endocrine disorders due to ovarian cancer, affecting the normal growth and shedding of the endometrial lining. This symptom manifests as non-menstrual vaginal bleeding, sometimes accompanied by spotting or discharge.

4. Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain may occur due to the tumor infiltrating the posterior part of the pelvic cavity or expanding to the lateral accessories, thereby stimulating or eroding the pelvic wall, leading to neuropathic pain in the lower back. Lower back pain is usually a persistent dull ache, ranging from mild to severe.

5. Fatigue

Fatigue may be due to cancer consuming the body's energy reserves, and the effects of chemotherapy drugs can lead to physical weakness. The sensation of fatigue can range from mild to extreme, making daily activities very difficult.

For early signs of ovarian cancer, it is recommended to undergo gynecological ultrasound, CA125 blood tests, and laparoscopy if necessary. Treatment includes surgical removal of the tumor, such as total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and adjuvant chemotherapy. Commonly used drugs include paclitaxel injection and cisplatin injection. Patients should maintain good nutritional status, avoid excessive fatigue, and undergo regular follow-ups to monitor disease progression.