Showing posts with label ovarian. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ovarian. Show all posts

Saturday, July 9, 2011

The Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer: Can You Trust Them?

By Owen Jones


The symptoms of ovarian cancer are fairly problematic to recognize regrettably. This is because they are similar to the indications of regular menstruation or menopause that many (or most) women experience frequently anyway. The chance that women who still menstruate have, is if they notice that some of the regular feelings are not quite right.

Menopausal women have a bigger problem because they are new to their situation and it is so unpredictable anyway. The indications of ovarian cancer include: abdominal pain, a feeling of being bloated, twinges and tiredness.

That is why it is so difficult to use these symptoms as predictors or ovarian cancer. However, if you have these indications at a time when you would not normally do so, or if they last longer than usual, then it would be worth checking with a doctor or your gynecologist.

If you are worried, of course, you will need to have a check up, but if you are 'umming and ahhing', endeavor to find out whether someone in your family has had ovarian cancer before. There is a tendency for it to run in families, but that is the case or most kinds of cancer really.

However, if you are looking into your family's history of cancer, bear in mind that cancer can out itself in different ways. for example, a man obviously cannot get ovarian cancer, but if your dad died of cancer you have an increased likelihood as well, albeit it in possibly another kind.

Age is another issue in the likelihood of someone having this form of cancer - the older the more likely to be expected. There is also another bizarre twist here. Women who have had a number of children are least at risk, women who have chosen not to have children are more at danger, and women who have always been incapable of having children are most at danger.

The fact is that this is such a difficult form of cancer to home-diagnose that it is scarcely worth the trouble. You have to listen to your body and trust your gut feelings. If things are not the same as you are used to, go and have a check up as soon as you can.

Apart from that, go for a ordinary check up anyway. Different countries have different recommendations, but whatever advice that your doctor or gynecologist gives you, you should follow. Ovarian cancer can be treated successfully and not only that but if it is caught early enough in young women, treatment does not necessarily mean loss of fertility.

So, the watchword is do not miss your check ups. Almost 75% of women who are diagnosed early can expect a complete recovery. Young women have an even higher chance than older women, which means that older women should go for check ups more often than younger women.

Do not be apathetic about this form of cancer even though the symptoms of ovarian cancer are not simple to recognize, in fact that is a very good reason for you to let an expert check you out. The tests are not invasive and consist of merely a blood test and an ultra sound scan.

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Saturday, February 26, 2011

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

By Raphael Patrick

Health is wealth, as they say, is true based on this we should make sure you are in great health outside and inside but it is also true that we quite often, we don't be assured that a particular sickness has already been knocking at our health's door irrespective of how we've done our best to try and prevent their attack because we don't have any idea what signs they carry and we do not have any idea that such disease ever exist.

On the subject of health problems, the majority of women nowadays aren't even aware of a sickness called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, a common hormonal ailment impacting 5-10percent of women of reproductive age and a condition which strikes the ovaries because a woman's bodily hormones are out of balance.

The most popular trigger of this ailment is genetics and that means your parents or some of your family members may have handed this illness down to you.

Either the ovaries produce a tiny level of male sex hormones or the body could have a problem using insulin

this conditions must be given serious attention because this dysfunction leads to diabetic issues and cardiovascular disease if not medicated but to fight this ailment we first need to realize it and know when we are being infected by it,

so here are some common signs and symptoms if PCOS is coming to attack you: * Acne. * Weight gain and problems concerning weight reduction. * Presence of hair on the face and body. * Thinning hair on the scalp. * Irregular periods. * Fertility problems. * Depressive disorders. * Most women with this condition have many small cysts on their ovaries

Eating well balanced meals, exercising regularly and stopping smoking will help to be rid of PCOS but it would be best to visit your doctor to be sure on what you will need usually your doctor will prescribe birth control pills, fertility medicines and diabetes medicines and make sure to follow-up to see if the treatment is working so you can adjust it if necessary

Generally, it is really significant for us to realize and analyze any illnesses as early as possible so that we would be able to know what to do and prevent worst-case scenarios and that also goes to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. To be able to fight against this illness we must first fully understand it be getting to know its causes and symptoms' which we have already covered and we must also know its different stages and treatments.

While there is no exact cure for this dysfunction and only treatment of signs and symptoms are used to reduce dangers of future problems, do not worry though, because Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is highly treatable if you are willing to make some lifestyle changes and if you get proper treatment, there is a pretty good chance you can live free of any symptoms and never develop difficulties such as heart problems or diabetes.

Do not wait until it is too late to educate yourself and take proper care of your health with new infections appearing regularly we can by no means be too careful.

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Saturday, February 21, 2009

What are the early symptoms of ovarian cancer

By Mark Ardine

In the US, ovarian cancer is the fourth major cause of death from cancer for women and affects 1 in 57 women. This can be successfully treated if it is diagnosed early. However, only about 24% of ovarian cancer cases are detected early on, resulting in lower survival rates. Hence, it is highly essential for women to watch for early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

To help people recognize the signs of ovarian cancer, the American Cancer Society in 2007, published some guidelines. Early symptoms of ovarian cancer can be bloating, gas, a "full" feeling, tiredness, irregular periods, abdominal or pelvic pain, and intense or frequent urination. Having a hard time eating or feeling full too early after beginning to eat are also signs of the presence of ovarian cancer.

Women who are at risk for ovarian cancer should monitor and report suspected early symptoms of ovarian cancer to their doctor in order to have it diagnosed early. Right now, early ovarian cancer cannot be definitively detected by any one screening examination. Certain symptoms like menstrual irregularities or pelvic pain is not always indicative of ovarian cancer, but awareness of any early symptoms of ovarian cancer is helpful in saving lives.

In order to rule out ovarian cancer, it is essential to visit your doctor if you experience any sudden or out of the ordinary symptoms, and then follow it up with a bimanual pelvic exam, a transvaginal ultrasound, and a Ca125 blood test. Women who have the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, have never used birth control pills or have had no pregnancies and whom were diagnosed with breast cancer before they were 50 years old are more likely than most to develop ovarian cancer.

Some women are at more risk of developing ovarian cancer than others. Women who are Ashkenazi Jews, are over the age of 50, have 2 or more relatives diagnosed with ovarian cancer, have been exposed to many fertility drugs are at higher risk. Regular monitoring for early symptoms of ovarian cancer are doubly important for these women.

Having regular gynecological check-ups are important for any woman's health. Immediate medical attention should be sought for symptoms that are present for greater than a few weeks. It is also important to realize that what may seem to be early symptoms of ovarian cancer may be something else entirely. These symptoms can also indicate ovarian cysts, irritable bowel syndrome, or another condition that a medical examination would be able to detect.

It is extremely critical to be aware of what the early symptoms of ovarian cancer are so this disease can be stopped before getting any worse. More than 6 percent of cases of cancer are fatal and women along with their physicians need to be aware of these symptoms and keep a close watch for them.

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Monday, December 1, 2008

Ovarian Cysts - The Primary Causes and Risk Factors

By Jane Downing

There are several reasons why someone may develop an ovary cyst, or ovary cyst symptoms.

1. Whilst genetics plays a leading part in the cause of an ovary cyst, it has been determined that alterations to lifestyle can eliminate some of the ovarian cyst symptoms. Comparisons between those who suffer from ovarian cysts against those who don't have a show the two cases have a different genetic pattern.

2. As with many illnesses, a weak immune system can contribue to the inability to prevent ovary cysts forming. When your body is unable to generate the properties needed to fight disease and infection, the likelihood of suffering from ovarian cysts is increased.

3. Poor dietary choices: Different types of food including the ones rich in carbohydrates, junk food toxic food and acidic food can bring about hormonal imbalance and can weaken your immune system making you more vulnerable to ovarian cyst. Similarly diet rich in sugar and low on fresh vegetables can make the task of flushing out toxins difficult thereby aggravating ovarian cyst problem

4. Serum sex-hormone binding globulin or SHGB can worsen the condition of ovarian cysts. This will result from a resistance to insulin which the leads to the ovaries producing an abnormal amount of the male hormone androgen.

5. Failed ovulation process: Sometimes, the ovaries fail to release egg on a monthly basis. This fails to produce progesterone and brings about hormonal imbalance. This can then lead to the formation of ovarian cysts.

Whilst the causes listed above are the main ones. When some of them occur at the same time there is an increased risk of developing an ovarian cyst.

However, through a series of lifestyle changes that approach the problem on a holistic level, treating and living with ovarian cysts is most definitely possible.

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Friday, October 3, 2008

Early Signs Of Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

By Paul Green

Ovarian cancer affects 1 of 57 women as the fourth leading cause of cancer death for women in the United States. Although ovarian cancer is treatable if it is diagnosed early, only 24% of ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed early enough. This causes decreasing survival rates as time passes by. Consequently, it is important for women to look out for early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

During the summer of 2007, the American Cancer Society and other similar organizations published findings that symptoms such as unexpected bloating, gas, or a feeling of fullness; fatigue, menstrual abnormalities, abdominal or pelvic pain, sudden urge and/or frequent urination and sudden changes in food habits such as difficulty in consuming food or feeling full too quickly may be early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

All women should monitor the early symptoms of ovarian cancer in order to have ovarian cancer diagnosed as early as possible, if at risk. If these symptoms last for more than two to three weeks, women should seek advice from their doctor. Although symptoms such as menstrual irregularities or pelvic pain don't always point to ovarian cancer, being aware of the early symptoms of ovarian cancer can help save lives. Keep in mind there is currently no reliable medical screening exam for the early detection of ovarian cancer.

In order to rule out ovarian cancer, it is essential to visit your doctor if you experience any sudden or out of the ordinary symptoms, and then follow it up with a bimanual pelvic exam, a transvaginal ultrasound, and a Ca125 blood test. Women who have the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, have never used birth control pills or have had no pregnancies and whom were diagnosed with breast cancer before they were 50 years old are more likely than most to develop ovarian cancer.

The risk of developing ovarian cancer varies among women. Some risk factors for women include being an Ashkenazi Jew, being age 50 or older, having at least two relatives with a history of ovarian cancer, and a history of exposure to multiple fertility drugs. Women who fall within these categories should be cognizant of what constitutes early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

Regular gynecology checkups are vital for every woman. Some symptoms are common to many conditions and illnesses. If the symptoms persist for longer than two to three weeks, a medical advice is highly recommended. For instance, many of the same early symptoms for ovarian cancer are similar to those experienced with ovarian cysts or irritable bowel syndrome. To be sure, visit your doctor for a thorough checkup and follow up.

Recognizing the early symptoms of ovarian cancer helps women to stop the progression of this deadly disease. Both women and their doctors should be aware of the risks of ovarian cancer. More than 6% of all cancer deaths in women are attributed to ovarian cancer.

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Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Natural Ovarian Cyst Cures

By Jay Taylor

Though most doctors agree that ovarian cysts either go away on their own after a few menstrual cycles or must be removed by surgery, some proponents of alternative health believe in all-natural ovarian cyst cures. It is important to have a diagnosis from a doctor before using any natural methods to cure ovarian cysts. Before researching ovarian cyst cures, the individual must know what type and size cyst they have. A cancerous ovarian cyst, for example, is best treated by a qualified health care professional in a hospital.

If a patient has functional cysts, natural treatment is sometimes an option. A functional ovarian cyst, even if it recurs, will almost always resolve itself given the passage of time. Using natural treatments is mostly a preventive effort to avoid developing additional cysts. Herbs and proper nutrition can be utilized as ovarian cyst cures to regulate the menstrual cycle, thereby lowering the risk of ovarian cysts.

If you are one of the many women who have suffered from ovarian cysts in the past you many want to try to prevent new cysts from recurring with the use of supplements and herbs. They can help balance your hormones and help your body function properly by improving your body's immunity and enhance liver functions. These supplements need to be taken over several months to help keep your body healthy and be an effective ovarian cyst cure along with proper medical care.

Women who don't get sufficient nutrition in their diets can supplement with multivitamins and minerals. Along the same lines, adequate amounts of vitamin C enhances the immune system and works to obliterate abnormal cells that can run the body down and make it more susceptible to illness including ovarian cysts. Zinc will assist with keeping free radical DNA damage under control, as well as assist cells to reproduce during normal egg development. On the other hand, hormone levels are balanced by B-vitamins that assist the liver in converting excess estrogen into a less dangerous substance. Cells are protected against damage and cellular changes with the assistance of antioxidants.

There are certain herbs that a woman who suffers from ovarian cysts may be able to use as a ovarian cyst cure. Regulating hormone production with herbs helps to prevent ovarian follicles from developing into cysts. Although if a woman is taking any hormonal medications, she should not take any herbs, before consulting with her doctor.

There are several herbs which help maintain equilibrium of the hormones so they may act as ovarian cyst cures. Silymarin marianum, more commonly known as milk thistle, is an herb whose properties allow it to have a protective effect on the liver and to improve its function, while deterring abnormal cell growth. Echinacea works by increasing white blood cells and maximizes blood cell activity, thus allowing the immune system to fight off abnormal cells. Echinacea works best when taken for 10 straight days, resting for 3 days, and resuming for another 10 more days.

In all cases, women should look after their diet and make sure they are receiving adequate nutrition. Any woman taking supplements or herbs should discuss these options with her doctor first. A doctor is the best person to properly guide you toward the right ovarian cyst cures.

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Monday, September 29, 2008

Reviewing What Happens When An Ovarian Cyst Bursts

By Jay Taylor

There is always a possibility than an ovarian cyst may burst. This is the number one concern for many women who have ovarian cysts. They usually do not know what to expect or what happens when an ovarian cyst bursts.

Severe pain that will usually radiate from the lower abdomen to the pelvic area is what women will most likely experience when an ovarian cyst bursts. The degree of pain felt by each person is affected by what happens when the ovarian cyst bursts. There are many contributing factors such as any infection of the cyst, any bleeding of the cyst, and what elements made up the cyst.

Proper care is very important when a ovarian cyst burst, usually requiring a trip to the emergency room as the pain can be quite intense. The lining of the peritoneal cavity, otherwise known as the peritoneum gets very irritated and causes extreme pain in the abdomen. The contents of the ovarian cyst as well as blood can cause the irritation and pain directly or indirectly due to a large concentration of prostaglandins and swelling.

Unlike what happens when an ovarian cysts bursts, when a regular follicle ruptures and releases an egg under the normal menstruation pattern, women usually experience no pain. This causes some to draw comparisons between the normal release of the egg and the bursting of an ovarian cyst. However, when a follicle ruptures, it causes very little bleeding because it is so small. Ovarian cysts can reach between 5 cm to 10 cm in diameter.

After an ovarian cyst bursts the fluid that is released, possibly causing a good ammount of bleeding in the area due to it's location to a high number of nearby blood vessles. It then only takes 10ml of lost blood in the area of the peritoneum to cause irritation because of the number of nerve endings it has causing allot of pain to women suffering from ovarian cysts. In comparison, the peritoneum is tender, requiring only a 10ml change in pressure, when the average blood donor usually looses five to twenty ml of blood and the only pain they feel is the initial prick of the needle.

Ovarian cysts that burst are uncommon and they usually disappear on their own after a few menstrual cycles have passed. When this happens the fluid contained within the ovarian cyst is reabsorbed into the body causing the collapse and eventually fade all together.

Concern about the risks and what happens when an ovarian cyst bursts is to be expected from women who have ovarian cysts. While extreemly painful, it is hardly ever a immediate threat to your life. Needless to say, if your a woman who is having this happen to you it would still be wise to go to the hospital or to your family doctor if you can and have yourself checked out.

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Saturday, September 27, 2008

Information on Ovarian Cyst Types

By Jay Tyler

Although usually not a problem, functional ovarian cysts are a problem common to many women. Ovarian cysts can be cancerous however most are not. Most functional ovarian cysts present no obvious symptoms and no treatment is required, however there is a chance ovarian cysts can cause discomfort and some may require treatment.

A follicular cyst is a simple type of ovarian cyst that can form when ovulation does not occur or when a mature follicle collapses on itself. It can grow to about 2.3 inches in diameter but usually produces no symptoms and disappears by itself after a few months.

An ovarian gland will produce progesterone during the ovulation portion of the monthly cycle of menstruation when the egg is released, and this is when a corpus luteum cyst could potentially develop. When a corpus luteum is healthy, it is approximately one inch in diameter, round in shape, and fluid filled. Corpus luteum cysts do not usually have noticeable symptoms. They can develop at the end of a menstrual cycle or early on during a pregnancy. Many of them do not require treatment, and, fortunately, disappear on their own.

A functional cyst on the ovaries that releases or contains blood is referred to as a hemorrhagic ovarian cyst. This type of cyst won't always burst, however when they do, it will cause a burning feeling in the pelvic area from leaking blood. Hemorrhagic cysts are common, however, and most of the time nothing needs to be done to treat them. If a doctor thinks the cyst is an indicator of endometriosis, they may perform surgery to remove it.

Women can develop dermoid cysts at any time and age, but dermoid cysts are a higher risk during the childbearing years. A dermoid cyst is one type of an ovarian cyst that grows from the totipotential germ cell in the ovaries. Tissues such as bone, teeth and hair can form from this ovarian cell. Dermoid cysts may contain solid physical tissue. Sometimes doctors find hair and teeth forming in these cysts. They are commonly removed because they may block the flow of blood to the ovaries.

An ovarian cyst that is pathological includes both tumors and endometriosis. These are not common and can only be found after examination by a doctor. A tumor can be defined as a pathological ovarian cyst and be either cancerous or not, benign or malignant. Tumors need to be dealt with as soon as they are discovered. A tumor is generally 6 cm or over, thick walled and persistent. On the other hand women in their prime reproductive years will often develop endometrioid cysts. These endometrioid cysts are present when a woman has endometriosis and are formed when a portion of endometrial tissue bleeds, falls off and then becomes transplanted in the ovaries.

There are many different types of ovarian cysts and each type should be diagnosed and treated properly. Pathological ovarian cysts are less common than functional cysts, but women should speak to doctors about any cyst.

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Friday, September 26, 2008

Ovarian Cysts During Pregnancy

By Jay Tyler

Quite common among all women, ovarian cysts usually take the shape of a small, round sac filled with fluid. Women even get ovarian cysts during pregnancy which happens in approximately one out of every thousand pregnancies.

The great majority of ovarian cysts discovered during pregnancy are benign cysts. Malignant cysts during pregnancy are less common. Ovarian cysts are classified as benign or malignant by doctors using ultrasound machines. If the mass lacks thick walls with no evidence of septation and is filled with fluid, it is probably a benign cyst. However, ultrasound is not one hundred percent accurate.

Ovarian cysts can become large, even when they are benign, and this leads to special complications during pregnancy. Though large cysts can cause pain whether or not a woman is pregnant, when a large cyst ruptures or twists on itself during pregnancy, there is the possibility of a miscarriage or pre-term labor. A baby may be delivered earlier than usual due to complications with ovarian cysts during pregnancy.

Under most circumstance, women rarely have problems with ovarian cysts during pregnancy, so long as the ovarian cyst does not become too large or ruptures. Even if the ovarian cyst ruptures, the result is often only pain and rarely infection. This pain can be lessened through the use of pain relievers and will not interfere with the normal progress of pregnancy. Moreover, despite their ovarian cyst, women can still use anesthesia during labor. Consequently, ovarian cysts do not present a huge threat during a pregnancy.

If a cyst becomes too large and twists, it will have to be surgically removed. Though a surgery will not harm the baby and cause any strain on the pregnancy, it is best to avoid removing a cyst and having a surgery during a pregnancy. On the other hand, ovarian cysts larger than 6 through 8 cm are often surgically removed unless they spontaneously shrink over the course of time.

Bear in mind that if they are big enough ovarian cysts during pregnancy will probably rupture. Most doctors simply keep an eye on the situation until the second trimester. If warranted and depending on the size, ovarian cysts can be removed either by laparoscopy or open incision.

In short, while ovarian cysts during pregnancy are fairly common, they should be closely monitored throughout the pregnancy. Ovarian cysts are generally no worse for the health of the would-be mother than they would be at any other time.

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Wednesday, September 24, 2008

What Are Complex Ovarian Cysts?

By Jay Taylor

The chances that a woman will end up having a ovarian cyst during their lifetime is actually quite common and is generally no cause for concern. Complex ovarian cysts are a different story as they occur less often and can sometimes cause serious health problems. They are called complex ovarian cysts due to their makeup, usually containing both solid and liquid portions, having more substance then simple ovarian cysts and come in three different types: endometrioma, cystadenomas and dermoid.

The ova, cells that form human eggs, can develop a form of complex ovarian cyst called a "dermoid cyst." Dermoid cysts can contain hair, teeth, and/or skin; this is because they have the potential to become any kind of tissue in a human since they are "non-differentiated cells." While they are usually non-cancerous, dermoid cysts can become very large and result in pain by causing the ovaries to become twisted.

A type of complex ovarian cyst which occurs when a woman has endometriosis is called an "endometrioma". Women with endometriomas suffer from uterine cells that grow outside the uterus and become attached to their ovaries, creating a growth after several periods. An endometrial cyst could become very large, reaching the size of a tennis ball or even bigger. This disease may be partially blamed on genetics. The symptoms of endometriosis include painful periods, pain before or after one's period or during intercourse, painful urination or bowel movements, general tiredness and erratic menstrual cycles.

Developing from ovarian tissue, cystadenomas are complex ovarian cysts that can be filled mainly with liquid and have a tendency to twist in the ovary producing sever pain. There are two different types of cystadenomas, serous and mucinous. Serous are filled with a thin fluid and are know to grow between 2 and 6 inches in diameter. Mucinous on the other hand have a core of thick, gelatin like liquid and grow from 6 to 12 inches in diameter.

While complex ovarian cysts frequently cause pain and other obvious signs as they develop in size, such symptoms can be similar to those of endometriosis or an ectopic pregnancy. Women who suffer from complex ovarian cysts frequently feel discomfort in the pelvis around their periods and during sexual activity. In addition, they may have menstrual problems including abnormal bleeding or cessation of menstruation. Complex ovarian cysts may also cause symptoms similar to those experienced during pregnancy, including breast tenderness, vomiting and nausea.

A diagnosis of ovarian cysts is typically reached after a pelvic examination is conducted. Doctors will frequently confirm such a diagnosis with a pelvic ultrasound. Pregnancy or other factors should be ruled out beforehand. Once you have received a confirmed diagnosis of a complex ovarian cyst, you should contact your physician whenever you experience severe pain in either the abdomen or in the pelvis.

A woman's age and symptoms are sometimes considered in making a diagnosis of complex ovarian cysts. Although not all ovarian cysts are cancerous, complex ovarian cysts must be tested to rule out cancer and to determine an appropriate course of treatment.

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Sunday, September 21, 2008

What are Ovarian Cyst Symptoms

By Jay Tyler

Having a number of ovarian cyst symptoms does not in and of itself prove that a cyst exists, but some symptoms are a much clearer indicator than others. A single symptom is generally not anything to worry about, but two or more of them together are a definite wake up call to see a doctor.

Menstrual irregularities, such as painful periods and abnormal bleeding may be an indication of ovarian cysts, especially if there is no prior history of irregularities. This could also mean a longer or shorter than usual menstrual period, an absent menstruation, or an irregular menstruation. Spotting or light bleeding can occur when symptoms of ovarian symptoms manifest. Unexplained weight gain may be another symptom of ovarian cysts.

Ovarian cyst symptoms can show up as a sort of dull ache in the lower back and pelvic area. Sometimes this pain will flair up either right before or after a period, but it can also be brought on during intercourse or even heavy exercise. When an ovarian cyst bursts or twists, it can cause a number of problems depending on the size of the cyst. There might be pain in the abdomen and the pelvic area, tissue irritation, and perhaps more seriously, blood will not be able to travel freely to the ovaries.

Symptoms similar to those of pregnancy, like nausea, vomiting, and tenderness of the breasts, are common symptoms of ovarian cysts. It is worth mentioning that other symptoms can distinguish between pregnancy and ovarian cysts. Infertility, for example, is itself a common symptom of ovarian cysts.

Ovarian cysts are often accompanied by abdominal pain, fullness or pressure. The pain may occur and disappear suddenly. Abdominal bloating or swelling may also be present. Development of an ovarian cyst may also cause uncomfortable pressure or pain during bowel movements, passing urine problems, and existence of pressure on the rectum or bladder.

All that most ovarian cysts need is time in order to go away. Some ovarian cyst symptoms, however, can be more urgent and need immediate treatment at a medical facility. These would be severe abdominal or pelvic pain that flares suddenly, shortness of breath, pain or fever with vomiting, and weakness or faintness that appears quickly.

Ovarian cyst symptoms make it difficult for a general doctor to detect a cyst and they rarely make a diagnosis based on them. While locating a cyst based on symptoms is not impossible, the majority of ovarian cysts are found not because of ovarian cyst symptoms, but as a result of annual Pap smears.

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Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Ovarian Cancer - A Fearful Diagnosis!

By Richard H Ealom

INTRODUCTION: About 15,280 women die every year in the US from ovarian cancer. Despite this, the 5-year survival rate for the disease has improved greatly in the last 30 years. The prognosis of ovarian cancer is closely tied to the stage at diagnosis. There is no approved screening method available at present for ovarian cancer.

The Mayo Clinic has one of the largest ovarian cancer practices in the US, treating more than 1,200 people in 2006 who had a primary or secondary diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Mayo Clinic uses a large variety of imaging techniques to detect cancer of the ovaries, including PET scans, CT scans and MRIs.

WOMEN: Ovarian cancer is the 7th most common cancer in women in the US, with over 25,000 women newly diagnosed per annum with this disease. It is the 5th leading cause of cancer deaths in women and often does not result in symptoms until the cancer has metatasized extensively. Only about 20 percent of women are diagnosed early, when the disease may still be curable. Cancer of the ovaries usually happens in women past 50 years of age, but it can also affect younger women. About 90% of women who get the disease are older than 40 years of age, with the largest number being aged 55 years or older.

RISK: All women are at risk for cancer of the ovaries, but older women are more apt to get the disease than younger women. The precise cause of ovarian cancer is not known, but several risk and contributing factors have been identified. Women who have been pregnant have a 50 percent decreased risk for developing cancer of the ovaries compared to those who have not. Oral contraceptive use decreases the risk of developing the disease. These factors support the idea that risk for ovarian cancer is related to ovulation and that conditions that suppress this ovulatory cycle play a protective role.

Genetic factors and Family history play an important role in the risk of developing cancer of the overies also. A history of breast cancer increases a woman's chances of developing ovarian cancer. The lifetime risk for developing ovarian cancer is 1 percent. This compares to a 4-5% risk when 1 first-degree family member is affected, rising to 7 percent when 2 relatives are affected.

DISEASE: The beginning stages of the disease causes minimal, nonspecific, or no symptoms. The disease is uncommon in women younger than 40 years of age, after which the incidence increases. Based on the surgical staging, females are classified as having limited disease (stage I and II) or advanced disease (stage III and IV). Women with limited disease are classified as having low or high risk for recurrence as follows: Low risk for recurrence includes the following; Grade 1 or 2 disease, No tumor on external surface of the ovary, Negative peritoneal cytology, No ascites, Tumor growth limited to the ovaries.

High risk for recurrence includes, Grade 3 disease, Preoperative rupture of the capsule, Tumor on the external surface of the ovary, Positive peritoneal cytology, Ascites Tumor growth outside of the ovary, Clear cell tumors, Surgical stage II for postoperative treatment. chemo drugs are indicated in all patients with ovarian cancer except those persons with surgical-pathological stage I disease with low-risk characteristics.

SYMPTOMS: may include a Heavy feeling in pelvis, Pain in lower abdomen, Bleeding from the vagina, Weight gain or loss, Abnormal periods, Unexplained back pain that gets worse, Gas, Nausea, Vomiting, or Loss of appetite. Symptoms may be caused by something other than cancer, but the only way to know is to see your doctor, nurse, or other health care professional.

Traditionally, it was believed that ovarian cancer does not produce any characteristic symptoms until the tumor is widespread, and that early symptoms of ovarian cancer were not recognizable. However, in June 2007, the American Cancer Society, along with other medical societies including the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation and the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists, released a consensus statement about possible early symptoms of ovarian cancer. This statement was based on research suggesting that some of the early symptoms of ovarian cancer can, in fact, be recognized.

TREATMENT: Treatment is usually surgery followed by treatment with chemotherapy. There are also many combinations of these treatment methods and it is well worthwhile to get a second opinion about treatment before entering into a specific program. The more knowledge you have, the easier it is to make informed decisions about your cancer treatment. Arlene Dunlop is a breast and ovarian cancer survivor whose treatments have kept her alive, well and out enjoying life.

Conclusion: Ovarian cancer actually represents a group of different tumors that arise from diverse kinds of tissue contained inside the ovary. Cancer of the ovaries can invade, shed, or spread to nearby organs. A malignant ovarian tumor can grow and invade organs next to the ovaries, such as the fallopian tubes and uterus. Ovarian cancer frequently produces signs and symptoms, so it is necessary for a woman to pay attention to her body and know what is normal for it.

Ovarian cancer most frequently appears in women who are older than 60 (about 50% of patients are over age 65), although it may occur in younger women who have a family history of the disease. Ovarian cancer is the most common cause of cancer death from gynecologic tumors in the United States. Ovarian cancer is diagnosed in about 23,000 women in the United States each year. Ovarian cancer is a frightening diagnosis, but coming to it with knowledge and information helps a great deal. The sooner ovarian cancer is found and treated, the better your chance for recovery.

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Sunday, August 17, 2008

Causes Of Ovarian Cysts

By Scott Green

Causes of ovarian cysts are many. During a normal menstrual cycle, the ovaries develop follicles each month. Estrogen and progesterone, two hormones which support pregnancy, are produced by these follicles. If a normal follicle continues growing for an extended period of time ovarian cysts can result.

Among ovarian cysts, follicular cysts are the most prevalent. They hardly ever produce any symptoms and usually resolve by themselves. They are usually harmless. Follicular ovarian cysts are usually caused when the pituitary gland hormones that stimulate egg release by the ovaries cause the follicle to swell instead. The enlarged follicle develops into a cyst.

Some normal causes of ovarian cyst can be attributed to when the luteinizing hormone surges and an egg is released. Upon the release of the egg, the ruptured follicle produces estrogen and progesterone in order to prepare for possible conception. At this point, the follicle is now called the corpus luteum. What happens next is that the egg seals off and fluid accumulates inside the follicle causing the corpus luteum to expand and become a cyst.

Corpus luteum cysts usually disappear on their own without treatment within a few weeks. In the meantime, however, it can grow to nearly 4 inches in diameter. It can also bleed into itself or twist the ovary. This can cause severe pelvic and abdominal pain. Moreover, if the corpus luteum cyst fills with blood, the cyst may rupture. This can cause internal bleeding and sudden, sharp pain.

Clomiphene citrate, a commonly prescribed fertility drug to induce ovulation, might be a cause of ovarian cysts. Usage of this drug may result in an increased risk that a corpus luteum cyst might develop. Corpus luteum cysts by themselves do not pose a risk to pregnancy.

Hemorrhagic or endometrioid cysts are cysts that contain blood and develop like the other ovarian cysts. The blood composition of the cyst comes from an injury or from blood vessel leakage into the egg sac. Some causes of ovarian cysts can be attributed to the bleeding and shedding endometrial tissue that imbeds itself in the ovaries. This build up will eventually rupture and cause pelvic pain.

There are several ways to decrease the causes of ovarian cysts. The most important things you could do include, but are not limited to, get more exercise, decrease stress, eat healthy, and improve your overall health.

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Sunday, July 27, 2008

Ovarian Cyst

By paul green

Certain symptoms will help to diagnose an ovarian cyst, though experiencing these ovarian cyst symptoms are not necessarily confirmation of the presence of an ovarian cyst. A symptom experienced by itself is not cause for immediate alarm, but medical attention should be sought quickly when a combination of two or more are recognized.

Menstrual irregularities, such as painful periods and abnormal bleeding may be an indication of ovarian cysts, especially if there is no prior history of irregularities. This could also mean a longer or shorter than usual menstrual period, an absent menstruation, or an irregular menstruation. Spotting or light bleeding can occur when symptoms of ovarian symptoms manifest. Unexplained weight gain may be another symptom of ovarian cysts.

Ovarian cysts can cause pelvic pain as a result or the start of menses, intercourse, or strenuous exercise. The symptom can include aching in the thighs and lower back. If the ovarian cyst bursts, bleeds, or twists, or if it grows too large it can cause pain and pressure in the pelvic region and in the abdomen. This can block blood flow to the ovaries and can irritate abdominal tissue.

The symptoms of pregnancy are much the same as the symptoms of ovarian cysts. You must look for symptoms outside the common pregnancy symptoms to see the difference between the two. Infertility is one of the common symptoms present with ovarian cysts.

Pain, fullness, or pressure in the abdomen often accompanies ovarian cysts. This pain may start and stop suddenly, and may be severe and sharp. There may also be abdominal bloating or swelling. In addition, pain or pressure during bowel movements including problems passing urine as well as pressure on the rectum or bladder may be a sign of ovarian cysts developing.

All that most ovarian cysts need is time in order to go away. Some ovarian cyst symptoms, however, can be more urgent and need immediate treatment at a medical facility. These would be severe abdominal or pelvic pain that flares suddenly, shortness of breath, pain or fever with vomiting, and weakness or faintness that appears quickly.

Ovarian cyst symptoms are not clearly and easily detected and their very nature makes it extremely difficult for them to be detected by a general practitioner in a routine examination. Cysts can be detected without the show of any symptoms but in the case of ovarian cysts they are usually detected during a patient's annual Pap smear rather than because the patient exhibited any symptoms.

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