Ovarian Cancer Symptoms: Know Your Body

Ovarian cancer is often called the silent killer because of it's vague symptoms.  However, the symptoms are not silent and you need to be aware.  The 5 year survival rate goes up dramatically for ovarian cancer patients who have had the disease diagnosed in the early stages.

If you have experienced any of these consistently for an extended period of time (about 2-4 weeks) talk to your doctor. 

Here is a list of the most common ovarian cancer symptoms. 

Abdominal or pelvic pain.

Increased abdominal size or persistent abdominal bloating.

Needing to urinate often or urgently.

Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly.

Other symptoms to be aware of as well are:

Changes in your bowel habits.

Unexplained weight gain or weight loss.

Bleeding in-between periods or after menopause.

Back pain.

Indigestion or nausea.

Excessive fatigue.

I found this information from the Ovarian Cancer Australia website.  Check their site, http://www.ovariancancer.net.au/awareness/symptoms/, for more details as well as a symptom diary that can help you monitor your symptoms more closely.