OVARIAN CANCER...PAGE 2 - BACK -

Paying close attention to symptoms of this disease like bloating, fatigue, abdominal swelling and pain, indigestion, frequent urination, pelvic and back pain, pain with intercourse, inability to eat normally and vaginal bleeding, makes a big difference so that it is brought to attention sooner, testing may then be recommended. Screening is done by a pelvic exam, ultrasound, CA125 blood test, X-rays, CT scan or even a biopsy. If the test show that cancer is present then surgery is almost always performed to determine the stage of the tumor, its size, whether other body parts are affected and the prognosis.

Next a treatment would be planned, which needs to be taken into great consideration, since the side effect may be worse with one more than the other, After surgery, there may be short-term tenderness and pain in the area of the operation, removing the ovaries can result in hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Chemotherapy effects normal cells as well as cancerous ones, side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, numbness, headaches, hair loss, darkening of the skin and fingernails and certain drugs can cause hearing loss and kidney damage. Radiation therapy has similar side effects as chemotherapy along with urinary discomfort, and bowel obstruction. Also, healing and coping can be considered the biggest and most painful side effect, knowing there is counseling and people to talk to, organizations that help dealing with the pain whether personal or from the disease and treatment, and charities that assist with the burden of financial responsibilities, taking advantage of these resources can answer questions, give advice and relieve unneeded stresses and depression, so that the focus is where it is needed. Follow-ups, having regular check-ups, keeping up with good nutrition and diet plans , and not forgetting to still live, get out regularly and enjoy life, all that is a part of being and staying healthy.

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