Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer or Cysts

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer or Cysts – Knowing the Difference

Can it be just ovarian cyst or is it already cancer? This is a question that is often asked by women, especially those that have already been diagnosed with ovarian cysts.

However, even the mere suspicion that they have the cyst is enough to occupy the thoughts of many women. This might be because ovarian cancer has a reputation of being a “silent killer”, since it is usually detected when it is already in its advanced stages, or it can be that women do not know whether they are feeling the symptoms of ovarian cancer or cysts.

For women to have more peace of mind it is important to know the difference between the set of symptoms that are associated with each, but first, what is a cyst and what is a cancer?

Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are sack like formations that contain fluid or solid tissue. They can grow on the surface of the ovaries or inside them, but most just go away in time.
There are several reasons why cysts occur. Cysts that result from the growth of follicles are the most common and are called follicular cysts. There are also cysts that are related to the monthly cycle of a woman called luteum cysts, while those that develop with abnormal tissues are called dermoid cysts or benign cystic teratomas.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer on the other hand is an abnormal growth that is composed of cells. It has a tendency to multiply uncontrollably and metastasize or spread to other tissues and organs of the body.
Cancer starts from a tumor, this is the result of the orderly cell reproduction of the body going wrong. Thus, new cells form even when there is no need for them and old cells stay alive when they should have died.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

As I mentioned earlier, most cysts go away by themselves. Women may not even notice they have them because there are no symptoms. If ever a symptom occurs, it is usually in the form of pain felt inside the pelvic area. This can be caused by a cyst rupturing inside or by the twisting of the cyst around its supply of blood, which is known as a torsion.
If a cyst grows larger, there are other symptoms that can occur, which is a result of the distortion of nearby tissues or pressure. These can include bloating, abdominal fullness, feeling an urge to go to the bathroom, irregular bowel movements, pain during sexual intercourse and early satiety.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer may not show any symptoms during the early stages of development but as it develops, it will start making its presence known. The symptoms can include the following:
• Swollen abdomen
• Pain or pressure felt in the back, belly, legs and the pelvic area
• Chronic tiredness
• Nausea, flatulence and indigestion

In addition to the above symptoms there are other less common signs of ovarian cancer that include the need to urinate frequently, shortness of breath and unusual bleeding from the vagina. This can be through heavy periods or bleeding even if the woman is already in her menopause.

Experiencing this set of symptoms does not always mean that you already have ovarian cancer, you might be experiencing ovarian cyst symptoms. Only a doctor can make a precise diagnosis. Hence, it is imperative that you consult your physician immediately if you have such symptoms.