Wednesday, January 2, 2013

Important Facts about Ovarian Cancer

The ovaries form one of the most fundamental parts of the female reproductive system. Apart from producing ova, which helps in the formation of a fetus upon fusion with a sperm, ovaries are also responsible for producing female sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Any type of cancerous growth in one or both the ovaries will therefore have a direct effect on the woman’s ability to reproduce. Hormonal imbalances leading to secondary health complications become immediate by-products.

Risk Factors

•    Women above the age of 55 years or those who have reached menopause are at a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
•    Genetics plays a crucial role in triggering cancerous cells formation. Therefore, if you have a family history of ovarian cancer patients, you could be highly vulnerable.
•    Infertility or having never been pregnant is also believed to be a causative factor.

Formation of Ovarian Cancer

A healthy cell grows and multiples at regular intervals depending on the body’s needs. When these cells grow old, they die and are replaced by new cells in the region. A cancerous cell on the other hand, grows and multiples at an alarmingly fast rate. A rapid production of a bunch of cells in a particular region automatically leads to the formation of a tumor, resulting in the presence of cancerous outgrowths. These tumors could be benign or malignant. The former are easier to remove and do not cause substantial damage to the person’s body. Malignant ovarian cancers on the other hand, have the ability to infiltrate and attack healthy cells and tissues in the region, rustling in further complications. While some women develop cancer in one of the ovaries, others might complain about cancerous cells in both the ovaries, making it a huge cause of concern. Receiving prompt and appropriate treatment from a cancer center is highly effective in helping you cope and heal in a better manner.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

  •     Unusual vaginal bleeding or heavy bleeding
  •     Vaginal bleeding after menopause or at an age of 55 years or more
  •     Pelvic pain and/or abdominal swelling and cramping
  •     Nausea, vomiting ,diarrhea, weight loss and lethargy
  •     Difficulty while urinating
Nutrition and Ovarian Cancer

Treatment in a cancer center is extremely effective when the affected person improves her eating habits. Intake of nutritious foods that provide a high dosage of proteins, carbohydrates and vitamins will help speed up the process of recovery. A high carb diet provides the much needed energy required to help the affected person cope with extensive chemotherapeutic or radiation treatments that makes her feel lethargic and tired. Proteins are effective in helping the body’s cells and tissues grow and heal at a faster rate. Proteins also strengthen the immune system, which is predominantly weakened in cancer patients. This will help the woman’s body fight off infections and secondary health complications in an effective manner. Vitamins aid the body in performing several metabolic reactions with ease. Staying positive and cheerful is extremely beneficial in helping your mind and body cope with the condition in an effective manner.

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