11 December 2023 , 16:56
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Doctors have warned women to look out for the subtle signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer while decorating the Christmas tree this year, because they're things you may not even think anything of.
Putting the festive decorations up is a really exciting time and it really signals that Christmastime is about to begin. From putting up tinsel, to the bauble collection you've been building up for years, and adorning your mantelpiece the cards you've started to get, it's important you've got a mulled wine in hand as the festivities begin.
But the Canadian Cancer society has warned that there are certain things your body shouldn't be feeling as you're putting up the decorations, warning people about ovarian cancer symptoms.
If you're decorating your home and you feel a frequent feeling of pressure in your pelvis or abdomen, pain in your legs, lower back, pelvis, or abdomen, and you're experiencing other symptoms, it may be time to contact your GP for an appointment to potentially rule ovarian cancer out.
According to the NHS: "Ovarian cancer affects the ovaries. It mostly affects women over the age of 50", and it is "often diagnosed late" as the symptoms can be more subtle, "such as bloating." However, "early diagnosis can mean it is more treatable", so if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to contact your doctor.
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It's important to note that these symptoms aren't always an indicator of cancer, but it's always worth being conscious if they do arise.
Other signs or symptoms to look out for include:
- Bleeding from the vagina that isn't normal (such as heavy or irregular bleeding, bleeding between periods), especially after menopause
- Frequent discharge from the vagina that is clear, white, or coloured with blood
- A lump that can be felt in the pelvis or abdomen
- Bladder problems such as the need to urinate often and the urgent need to urinate
- Constipation
- Changes to digestion such as feeling full after a small meal, loss of appetite, heartburn, gas, indigestion, or nausea
- Frequent feeling of pressure in the pelvis or abdomen
- Fatigue
- Pain in the legs, lower back, pelvis or abdomen
- Pain when having sex
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Weight loss
- Buildup of fluid in the abdomen (ascites), around the lungs (pleural effusion), or in the legs (lymphedema)
- difficulty breathing
If you have any of the above symptoms and you're concerned, please contact your GP.