Symptoms women shouldn’t ignore

Pelvic pain and abnormal bleeding aren’t the only signs of gynecologic cancer, so as part of Cervical Health Awareness Month in January, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center wants to share other symptoms often overlooked.

More than 80,000 women in the United States are diagnosed each year with a gynecologic cancer, such as cervical, endometrial (also known as uterine) or ovarian cancer. Unfortunately, because symptoms for these cancers often are vague, many women mistake them for other less serious conditions. So, it’s important to know exactly what to look for because gynecologic cancers usually are most treatable when found early.

Here are 10 symptoms of cervical and other gynecologic cancers every woman should watch for. Alert your doctor if these symptoms appear, especially if you’ve already gone through menopause.

• Swollen leg. Does one leg look or feel swollen for no reason? This may be a sign of cervical cancer. Typically, though, a swollen leg isn’t a sign of cancer unless there’s also pain, discharge or other cervical cancer symptoms.

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding. More than 90 percent of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer experience irregular bleeding. Women who’ve already undergone menopause should have any bleeding — including spotting — evaluated. Women who haven’t gone through menopause should see a doctor about bleeding between periods, heavy bleeding or bleeding during sex.

• Unexplained weight loss. Women who suddenly lose more than 10 pounds without changing diet or exercise habits should see their doctor.

• Vaginal discharge colored with blood. Bloody, dark or smelly discharge usually signals infection. But sometimes, it’s a sign of cervical or endometrial cancer.

• Constantly needing bathroom breaks. Constantly need to use the bathroom or feel continuous bladder pressure? This may be a sign of cancer. Take note, especially if you also feel full, have abdominal pain and experience bloating.

• Loss of appetite or constant feeling full. Never hungry anymore or constantly full? These appetite changes might be symptoms of ovarian cancer.

• Pain in the pelvis or abdominal area. Ongoing abdominal pain or discomfort — including gas, indigestion, pressure, bloating and cramps — can signal ovarian cancer. Constant pelvic pain or pressure can be a sign of endometrial cancer.

• Belly bloat. Women often feel bloated after eating or drinking a lot, especially during their menstrual cycles. But a woman might have ovarian cancer if she continues feeling bloated for more than two weeks or after her period ends.

• Constant fatigue. A little rest typically should cure fatigue. But women should see a doctor if fatigue constantly interferes with work or leisure activities.

• Persistent indigestion or nausea. Feeling queasy for an extended period of time? Occasionally, persistent indigestion or nausea can signal gynecologic cancers, so play it safe and see a doctor.

Remember, having one or more of these symptoms doesn’t mean you have cancer, but if they last two weeks or longer, see your doctor. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

For additional healthy holiday tips, visit www.mdanderson.org/focused. And to learn more about the MD Anderson Regional Care Center in the Bay Area go to www.mdanderson.org/bayarea.

Therese Bevers is medical director of MD Anderson’s Cancer Prevention Center.