Millions of individuals are diagnosed with cancer each year. Depending on the type of cancer, symptoms can present themselves in a variety of different ways and rates of progression. Age group, race and ethnicity may play a significant role in one’s likelihood of developing a specific form of the disease. In-depth knowledge of your family’s medical history can provide you with relevant information relating to any pre-dispositions that you may have.

For example, if members of your immediate family have dealt with cancer in their ovaries, it would be in your best interest to know the early warning signs associated with this form of cancer.

Abdominal Discomfort

Abdominal discomfort is a common symptom of many illnesses and may not always be a cause for concern. Food poisoning, gastrointestinal infections or sore muscles can wreak havoc on this part of your body. Unhealthy eating habits can also contribute to abdominal distress. However, in these instances, your body should begin to recover over time with rest, medication or dietary modifications. Persistent pain or pressure in the abdomen, lower back or pelvis pain that doesn’t go away after a few weeks can be an early indicator of ovarian cancer.

Bloating

In a healthy individual, it is normal to experience bloating from time to time. Salty foods, alcohol and certain medications are notorious for causing excessive amounts of air to become trapped inside of the abdomen. This uncomfortable sensation is often short-lived due to the body’s ability to regulate itself. Feeling overly full or bloated on a regular and consistent basis may point to an underlying issue. A distended stomach might also accompany any bloating; this may create the appearance that you have gained weight without having done so. You should carefully monitor this to see if it continues to become a problem or is able to self-correct.

Urinary Problems

Some women may get many urinary tract infections throughout the course of their lifetime. As you age, you often begin to recognise the telltale symptoms before any serious complications can arise. The excessive feeling of needing to use the bathroom, pain when urinating and general discomfort can easily signal the presence of such an infection. These signs are also quite commonly found with the development of cancer. Unfortunately, many individuals may assume that simply obtaining over-the-counter medications or prescription antibiotics will be the cure to all of their urinary problems. It is important that you keep track of how long any of these symptoms may last.

Difficulty Eating

Individuals often develop regular eating habits and routines that vary greatly from one person to the next. You might be able to eat heavier meals less frequently throughout the day, while someone else may need to eat smaller meals or snacks at closer intervals. Over time, your body may change the way that it functions and processes food. Common illnesses such as the cold and flu may closely mimic signs of cancer, but they should dissipate rather quickly. Any changes in appetite due to increased exercise or food restrictions are expected. Drastic changes in your eating that can’t be easily explained should be promptly addressed. Loss of appetite for no apparent reason or feeling full after small meals may indicate that you have cancer in your ovaries.

It can be extremely overwhelming when it comes to cancer prevention and treatment due to the multitude of ways that the disease can present itself. Each individual body is unique and can show a different set of symptoms at different stages. If you have an increased chance of developing a specific type of cancer, knowing the early warning signs associated with it may help to put your mind at ease.