Can Bloating Be a Sign of Ovarian Cancer?
Hello, friend.
As a two-time survivor of a rare form of ovarian cancer, I’m passionate about helping women recognize the signs and symptoms early. Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent killer” because the symptoms are so hard to recognize, or seem like they must be caused by something else, that it’s often caught late when it’s harder to beat.
In this blog post, we will delve into the topic of ovarian cancer bloating, exploring what it is, how it feels, and its association with the disease. By increasing your awareness, we hope to empower you to take proactive steps towards your well-being.
What is Ovarian Cancer Bloating and How Does It Feel?
You may be curious, "What is ovarian cancer bloating, and how does it feel?" Let's explore together:
Have you noticed persistent abdominal bloating that doesn't seem to go away?
Does your abdomen feel full or tight, as if it's constantly distended (stretched)?
Have you experienced changes in clothing size due to an increase in abdominal girth (your belly getting bigger)?
Do you experience abdominal bloating that seems to worsen when you eat or after eating?
Ovarian cancer bloating is characterized by a prolonged enlargement of the abdomen, accompanied by discomfort or a feeling of fullness. Personal accounts from survivors shed light on the experience:
1. "The bloating felt like my belly was constantly swollen. It was uncomfortable and made me feel self-conscious. My clothes became tight, and I had to wear looser garments." - Emma, ovarian cancer survivor.
2. "The bloating was different from the usual bloating I experienced during my menstrual cycle. It felt more persistent and was accompanied by abdominal discomfort." - Laura, ovarian cancer survivor.
I’ll add my own experiences here as well. I can say that I did not experience all the symptoms of ovarian cancer. Nothing shows how personal and individual cancer can be like saying, “Oh yes, I had this and this symptom,” and “No, I didn’t have that.”
In my case I had abdominal bloating that was both progressive (got worse over time) and persistent (eventually I felt bloated more often than not). My bloating always seemed to be tied to eating. Sometimes this is not described with ovarian cancer bloating, as if you’re always bloated and that is often the case. But in my case, I’d eat and then I’d feel bloated. My stomach would be big and tight. I also had another symptom of ovarian cancer, irritable bowel with diarrhea (sorry for the overshare, but how are we going to learn if we aren’t honest with each other?). Guess what I thought was wrong? Something with my digestive system. Of COURSE I thought that. Who thinks, “I’m bloated, maybe it’s ovarian cancer…”? Well, it turns out we should ask ourselves that question as women if we have persistent or progressive bloating. It COULD be many other things, like digestive issues. But it COULD—as it was in my case—be ovarian cancer.
I tell LITERALLY every woman I know, “If you have something happening in your abdomen or pelvis that is NOT obviously linked to your menstrual cycle like persistent bloating, pain, or changes to your digestion or urination, GO SEE YOUR OB/GYN!!!” It might not be related to anything gynecologic, but it could be and you won’t know that unless you get it checked out.
Understanding the sensation and physical changes associated with ovarian cancer bloating is important in identifying potential warning signs.
Understanding the Association: Why is Bloating a Sign of Ovarian Cancer?
You may be wondering, "Why does bloating occur in association with ovarian cancer?" Let's explore possible reasons:
1. Ascites (uh-sy-tees) and Fluid Accumulation: Ovarian cancer can cause the buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity, known as ascites. This accumulation can lead to visible bloating and swelling.
So you’re literally bloating! You aren’t imagining it.
2. Tumor Growth and Pressure: As ovarian tumors grow, they can exert pressure on nearby organs and tissues, affecting normal fluid balance. This can contribute to abdominal bloating and discomfort.
This was why I felt bloating. My tumor was large and pressing on organs in my digestive system so whenever I ate and food was being processed by my digestive system, I had bloating, discomfort, and irritation in my bowel, usually diarrhea.
3. Inflammatory Response: Ovarian cancer triggers an inflammatory response in the body. Inflammation can result in fluid retention and contribute to bloating.
Again, the bloating is real. You’re not imagining it. And if it’s not going away or it’s getting worse, you need to get it checked out.
Recognizing the association between ovarian cancer and bloating is essential for early detection and seeking medical evaluation when necessary.
It would be EASY for a woman to think, “I’m gaining weight.” And then think a bunch of awful things about herself right after that. (Sound familiar?) A focus on weight and beating ourselves up about gaining it is so common that it can overcome all other thought. But if your belly constantly feels tight and uncomfortable, that’s bloating. Gaining weight from fat accumulation doesn’t create discomfort, pain, or digestive issues. If your waistband is tight and so is your tummy, don’t beat yourself up and start a crazy diet… go see your OB/GYN.
Conclusion
Now that we have explored ovarian cancer bloating in detail, you are better equipped to recognize this symptom and its potential significance. If you experience persistent and unexplained abdominal bloating, along with other concerning symptoms associated with ovarian cancer, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. Early detection is key in improving treatment outcomes. Remember, this blog post is intended to provide information and support, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any concerns or questions, seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.
References:
1. National Ovarian Cancer Coalition. (n.d.). Ovarian Cancer Symptoms. Retrieved from https://ovarian.org/about-ovarian-cancer/awareness-and-education/symptoms-of-ovarian-cancer/
2. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/
