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Tuesday, November 30, 2010

The Truth Behind Ovarian Cancer

Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality in this world.  It is being feared by most people.  Once an individual has it, it will stay with him till his last breath.  It is hard to accept that your family member, your friend or even you have cancer.  The pain and the sadness are hard to bear especially when no one is there to support and comfort you.  A cancer patient needs to remain strong, determined to stay healthy and fight for the dreaded disease and this can all be possible if he has a strong support group.

There are so many types of cancer that we need to know about the same as knowing the different tazer guns for sale in the market if you want to give yourself extra protection.  It can either be acquired genetically or from living a sedentary lifestyle.  Being a chain smoker leads to the development of lung cancer. Drinking too much alcoholic beverages leads to liver cancer.  Intake of carcinogenic foods such as barbeque may cause colon cancer.  Stress is even one major cause of cancer.  If you will not become vigilant particularly to your health, there is a great chance that you will develop cancer.

Both men and women have distinct types of cancer due to the differences of the reproductive organs.  Men can develop prostate cancer while women can develop ovarian cancer and breast cancer.  It is important that men and women pay attention to their health, do early detection to prevent cancer the same as having a phone stun gun for your protection against the wrong intentions of criminals.  Cancer still has no treatment and if you do not want to suffer, make sure that you live a healthy lifestyle.

Talking about the types of cancer in women, ovarian cancer has been the most common deadly type of gynecologic cancer.  It is the fifth most frequent cause of cancer death in women.  This type of cancer is rarely diagnosed early because of its insidious growth and relative inaccessibility and thus, most patients present with an advanced stage of the disease.  The incidence of ovarian cancer is increased in older women.  Factors which lead to the higher incidence of this disease include nulliparity, infertility, marked dysmenorrhea, early menopause and irradiation of pelvic organs.

Ovarian cancer may produce some early clinical findings that if recognized, should lead your physician to a relatively early diagnosis.  The early presenting symptoms are those that physicians vaguely associate with gastrointestinal disorders such as dyspepsia, early satiety and bloating.  Patients having an advanced stage of ovarian cancer may complain about pelvic pressure and fullness accompanied by urinary frequency and constipation. 

There is increased in abdominal girth due to weight gain but is usually due to ascites or a mass rising out of the pelvis. A complete physical examination is done with emphasis on abnormal changes in the breasts, abdomen and the pelvic area.  Careful bimanual and rectovaginal examinations are performed.

Treatment of this type of cancer is based on the clinical evaluation, the stage of the disease and the overall condition of the cancer patient.  Combination therapy is compromised of surgery, radiation therapy or chemotherapy.  It is important for the patient to strictly comply to all of these therapies in order to properly manage the disease.

The management of any types of cancer does not necessarily mean that it will sure the disease but rather they are intended to alleviate the pain and the other symptoms that the cancer victim is experiencing.  We all should be very vigilant and pay attention to health because seriously, health is a very precious wealth.

Monday, November 29, 2010

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms - Silent Symptoms You Must Know

Ovarian cancer symptoms are very unlikely to be detected unless you have knowledge of the early signs and symptoms. The cancer holds its reputation as "The Silent Killer" because of the lack of obvious symptoms in its early stage when its still curable. In three out of four patients, the cancer has already spread from the lower abdomen to other organs before it was discovered in its later stages. And though, 95% of women do experience early signs prior to diagnosis, but sadly the majority of these women do not recognize it as symptoms of ovarian cancer. Therefore, it is crucially important to understand the hidden signs that may pass by swiftly in which it becomes too late to cure. Read thoroughly to learn some of the early signs and symptoms.

Signs & Symptoms

The following can also be from varies other health issues but be cautious if you experience one or more of the symptoms below for one to three weeks and contact your doctor immediately for a pelvic examination test, and a recto-vaginal component, which will show the best prediction of a timely diagnosis.

Symptoms include lower abdominal pressure or discomfort, increased frequent gas, lack of appetite, unusual weight change, abnormality in your menstrual cycles, sense of heaviness in the pelvic, increased frequency and urgency to urinate and/or burning or spasms while urinating, abdomen swelling, feeling full, constant bloating, indigestion, changes in bowel movements, unusual tiredness or fatigue, nausea and vomiting, vaginal bleeding or discharge especially when your not in your menstrual period, lower back pain that worsens over time, difficulty breathing, onset of acne, pain during or after intercourse, sharp pain in or around the ovaries or the pelvic area, and fever.

The link between ovarian cysts and ovarian cancer

Although it is not a fact, studies did find that those who have constant onsets of ovarian cysts or had polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) showed a much increased risk to developing ovarian cancer. Ovarian cysts effects a high majority of women worldwide. Statistics has shown that almost 80% of all women will develop an ovarian cyst at some point in their life, but not all women will experience symptoms. It is vital to learn how to treat cysts or PCOS and reduce your risks of developing cancer.

Treating ovarian cysts and decreasing your cancer risks

You can decrease your cancer risks simply by treating your ovarian cysts or PCOS before they start to get dangerous. Taken birth control or hormonal pills will not take away cysts or PCOS because prescription medication may only cover some symptoms but do not actually prevent the cysts from reoccurring. However, changing to the right diet, exercise, and alternating to natural treatments such as herbal remedies, were found to dramatically shrink and even prevent cysts and PCOS from reoccurring and lowering risks to developing cancer. It is surely something your doctor never mentions to you, but many women actually found great success using natural treatment options that eliminated their cysts within a very short period of only two month.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is formed in one or both ovaries which are located on either side of the uterus. The ovaries are only about the size of an almond, and are responsible for producing the eggs and releasing them into the fallopian tubes.

The ovaries also produce estrogen and progesterone, which are two female hormones. If these levels are too high before and during ovulation, they may cause ovarian tumors to form.

There are basically two types of ovarian tumors, one is type is non-cancerous, and the other is cancerous. If the tumors are cancerous they will spread to the outside of the ovaries, and eventually spread to other parts of the body.

Only about 20 percent of the tumors are discovered before they have begun to spread past the ovaries. This is mainly because the early symptoms of ovarian cancer are often misdiagnosed because they are similar to the symptoms of many common ailments such as indigestion, gas, nausea, bloating, constipation and bladder disorders. The only difference between the symptoms is that the symptoms of ovarian cancer will not disappear after a few days, but rather they will gradually become worse and the cancer continues to spread.

So who is at risk?

Those who are overweight, and obese. Obesity is linked to more severe ovarian cancers, and increases the risk by 80%. The fat cells help to produce higher levels of estrogen which is linked to causing ovarian cancer.

It usually only develops after menopause, but can also occur before menopause. As one ages, the risk increases.

Women who have had no children, or had their first child after the age of 30 are at a greater risk.

Women who began menstruating at an early age (before 12), and had a late menopause (after 50), are also at an increased risk.

Those who have trouble conceiving, but researchers do not know whether this is because of infertility, or because of infertility drugs which are administered to the patients.

Hormone replacement therapy also plays a major role.

A drug called danazol, has also been linked to ovarian cancer. It is a male hormone (androgen) which is used to treat endometriosis.

A high fat diet also largely increases the risk.

Those who have had breast cancer are also at a higher risk.

Family history, if someone in the family has had it, the risk increases by 10-15 percent.

Gene mutations (or so they say).

To eliminate some of the risks of getting ovarian cancer, one can stick to a healthy plant-based diet to help maintain a healthy weight, and to keep the inside of the body clean, and free of toxins.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Alternative Cervical Cancer Treatment

The new discoveries scientists are making every day are amazing. Breakthroughs seem to come all the time but still we have regular folk still suffering from diseases such as cervical cancer and along with are the pains suffered both mental and physical. Like most people searching for answers, I know you have come here looking for an alternative cervical cancer treatment. What I would like to present to you is an alternative treatment for your mind while you are being treated for cervical cancer and also give you a warning regarding 'charlatans' on the Internet selling all kinds of 'cures'.

The anguish and pain suffered by people even when they just find out that they have cancer is one that people who have not experienced cannot compare. You have terrible thoughts and visions of you dying and suffering during the process. To beat your dis-ease, you are truly going to need to find within you more strength then you have ever had before. Chemo can cause a lot of pain and nausea and just your mental thoughts will be enough to drive you to dispair. To beat this, you need a strong mind and will, and you need it now.

Doctors and scientists are still baffled as to why one person survives and why one doesn't even though you could say they have identical symptoms and are at identical stages when diagnosed. Scientists are baffled still as to exactly why one person feels more pain then another, even though the pain should be really the same. They do know though it has something to do with the mind. If you're having thoughts that you are going to die, and not win this battle then I am sorry to say you probably will not win.

Hypnosis can give you an incredible instant change of mindset. It can give you the positivity you need right now. While your doctors work hard on your physical body, you really need to work hard on your mind, its thoughts and be ridding it of all negativity to give yourself every chance of survival. If you truly believe that you create everything that comes into your life, then you will truly know the power of your mind and how your mind can have a major influence in the recovery of your dis-ease.

I know you have probably heard of cases of people deciding that they are not going to under go chemo or their doctors prescribed treatments and that they have sought out alternatives and have successfully healed themselves. I want to tell you right now that the cases of these are very few and far between and personally, I like to take a bet on my life both ways. Letting my doctor treat my physical body, while I seek out the best for my mind is going to give me a fighting chance. Alternatives such as acupuncture are also great to seek out while under going chemo to assist in clearing the toxins that chemo puts into your body.

Earlier in this article I mentioned that you create everything that comes into your life. I know that is a very difficult concept for a lot of people to comprehend and it took me a long time to come to the conclusion that it is true. We do know now how powerful our minds are. The thoughts we create can be toxic or they can be positive for our well being. One of the best methods of helping your mind is with hypnosis. It is definitely an alternative cure. There are mp3 hypnosis downloads which you can use in the privacy of your own home which have been specially created for cancer patients. These downloads can assist with staying positive, nausea and controlling the pain created by cancer and its treatments. Take action today and help yourself and your doctor give your body its best chance for its physical fight by treating your mind today.

Friday, November 26, 2010

Endometriosis Compared to Cancer


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Even though Endometriosis is a condition that affects 1 out of 7 women all over the world, there is not a lot that is known about this disease. It is a problem that occurs when the tissue found inside of the uterus develops in other parts of the body. Endometriosis causes are still unknown, however, there are several theories.

This condition has often times been compared to cancer, which is defined as an invasion of the cells that's growth is unrestrained. There are other similarities between these two diseases which include a decrease in the amount of cells that undergo apoptosis and a development of new blood vessels. Many doctors have been debating the idea that endometriosis will transform into cancer since 1925, and yet still no conclusions have been made.

Recent research has shown that there may be a connection between cancer and endometriosis. It has been seen that women who have endometriosis are more prone to other forms of cancer including, endocrine, breast, brain, and ovarian. Even though these doctors agree that there is a risk, there is still further research that needs to be done in order to conclusively link endometriosis to cancer.

The research that has been done up to this point has found that women with endometriosis only have a slightly higher risk of developing cancer than women who are not suffering from this condition. Additionally, women who have had a hysterectomy during or before they developed endometriosis are not shown to have a higher risk of developing cancer.

The primary difference between cancer and endometriosis is the fact that endometriosis is not deadly like cancer is. While this condition can be extremely painful, and is associated with other various conditions like issues with the pelvic area, it is not cancerous by itself. Endometriosis treatments include laparoscopic surgery, pain management, and the treatment of hormone imbalances.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

What Are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer often has no symptoms (or only very mild ones) until it begins to spread beyond the ovaries. Unfortunately, there is no effective way of screening for ovarian cancer at this time. The effective treatment of ovarian cancer will be significantly increased if researchers can develop a screening test that helps doctors identify ovarian cancer at its early stages. Several large studies are currently underway, but the results will not be available for several years.

Some physical symptoms of ovarian cancer include:

- abdominal discomfort or pelvic pain
- bloating
- difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- frequent urination
- fatigue
- backache
- nausea, indigestion, loss of appetite
- weight loss
- change in bowel habits
- gas
- pain during intercourse
- abnormal vaginal bleeding (rare)

If you find that these symptoms last longer than three weeks or consistently are increasing in intensity, contact your doctor. One other thing to remember is that these symptoms can also be caused by other health issues, not necessarily cancer.

Some other causes could be bladder infections or digestive disorders. The best way to be sure is to get tested. In fact it is not uncommon for a woman to with ovarian cancer to be diagnosed with another condition before finally learning she has cancer.

Doctors can usually diagnose ovarian cancer within three months of women first noticing symptoms, but sometimes it may take six months or longer before a diagnosis can be made. I hope I've made the symptoms pretty clear and now you have some great info to go by.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

What Are the Early Warning Signs of Ovarian Cancer?


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Am I suffering from the silent killer?"This is a very scary question that all women need to ask themselves at one point in their lives. The reason why this is called the silent killer is because you do not get to know that the cancerous cells have multiplied abnormally in your ovaries to spread to the rest of the body. It is only in the later stages that you get to know that you have become a victim, frightening isn't it. Nevertheless, you do not have to get dismayed; there are number of symptoms you can identify to help prevent it from advancing to the later, more deadly stages. This cancer of the ovaries is curable, when it is caught in the 1st stage. So, if you are one of the 55 women in the USA, showing these particular ovarian cancer symptoms, make an appointment with the doctor immediately.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer

First of all you have to remember that these early symptoms are silent, You must be aware of your body and these signs because they are not going to manifest themselves in any overt displays of pain. So it is extremely necessary that you keep "in touch" with what your body is telling you.

· Have you noticed a particular heaviness in the solar plexus and pelvic region?

· Have you found a bloody discharge and vaginal bleeding appearing at odd times, apart from the normal bleeding of your menstrual cycle?

· Do you feel nauseous or feel bloated?

· Are you suffering from a lack of appetite and a sense of lethargy?

· Have you gained or lost weight drastically?

· Does your back ache for absolutely no justifiable reason or cause?

· Has your abdomen swollen up, and is there a change in the bowel movements?

· Do you find that intercourse is painful?

· Are you finding difficulty in breathing?

These are some of the questions that you can ask yourself when you are wondering if there have been any changes to your body that might indicate an early signs of ovarian cancer. It is extremely essential that you go and see a doctor as soon as one or more of these symptoms manifest themselves. In fact, ovarian cancer has a better chance (70 -- 80% chance) of being cured by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, if it is caught early. The metastasis or spread of the disease can make the percentage chances of curing ovarian cancer to lower down to about 30%. So it is necessary that you know about the symptoms of possible ovarian cancer and get a doctor's opinion immediately.

Here are some of the risk factors which you may want to look for, which makes you more vulnerable to ovarian cancer.

· Have you had a long history of ovarian cysts?

· Is there a history of ovarian cancer in the family?

· Are you postmenopausal and still getting ovarian cysts?

These are some of the risk factors, which are going to contribute to your chances of getting ovarian cancer. So it is absolutely necessary to listen to what your body is conveying to you, silently. Recognize the early ovarian cancer signs and symptoms and get a complete check and ovarian biopsy done. It is only then, you can be effectively treated by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, if necessary.

Monday, November 22, 2010

The Stages of Endometriosis

Endometriosis symptoms can vary greatly from one person to the next. Symptoms can be severe while the endometriosis itself is mild. Mild symptoms can be present or even undetectable and endometriosis can be very advanced. The endometriosis symptoms you experience could have no correlation at all to the extent or severity of the endometriosis itself.

Endometriosis tissue is much like the lining of your uterus. It reacts hormonally the same as the uterine lining. It grows and sheds along with your menstrual cycle. It is widely believed that in some cases, when the uterine lining is shed, it does not leave the body as it is supposed to. Instead, it travels up the fallopian tubes and into the abdominal cavity. Here, it infests the reproductive organs, surrounding tissues and even the nearby organs.

Endometriosis is a progressive disease and can get worse over time. It can spread to the lower back, bowels, kidneys, lungs and other organs, inhibiting organ function. This is why it is particularly important to treat endometriosis even if you do not have infertility concerns.

Symptoms can be mild or severe. They include heavy, painful or irregular periods. Lower back pain and kidney problems are also not uncommon. Many women are not diagnosed with endometriosis until they experience infertility. Endometriosis is usually discovered during a diagnostic laparoscopic surgery while an infertility specialist is looking for infertility causes. A laparoscopic endometriosis treatment may be necessary to restore fertility. Laparoscopy is the only way to definitively diagnose endometriosis.

Endometriosis severity is measured in stages. Stage 1 is referred to as minimal endometriosis and may or may not have an effect on fertility. Stage 1 endometriosis is usually treated with medications unless you are trying to conceive. If you are having trouble conceiving, then even minimal amounts of endometrial implants and lesions may need to be surgically removed. Another reason to treat stage 1 endometriosis is because it is progressive and can lead to dangerous organ damage down the line.

Stage 2 endometriosis is mild, but more than just the occasional lesion or implant is visible. Stage 2 endometriosis usually means that at least one of the ovaries has endometriosis present. This can lead to your fallopian tubes being blocked by scar tissues or the ovaries themselves being compromised by the present implants.

Stage 3 endometriosis is considered moderate. Stage 3 is used to describe endometriosis, usually on both ovaries as well as the uterus. Implants and lesions may be deeper and take up more area than stage 2 implants and lesions. Surgical treatment of stage 3 and stage 4 endometriosis historically has had the greatest impact on fertility associated with endometriosis.

Stage 4 is the most severe. Stage 4 is used to describe endometriosis that is prominent in the abdominal cavity. Stage 4 endometriosis can affect many surrounding organs and be very dangerous. This is the stage most commonly associated with infertility.

If you are experiencing any endometriosis symptoms and are having trouble conceiving, then you could have an advanced level of endometriosis. You should never ignore endometriosis symptoms or prolong treatment.

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Discover Your Options For Cervical Cancer Treatment

Cervical cancer, that is cancer of the cervix, is a type of cancer that is slow to develop, and targets, as you would expect, the cervix. Since this is an important part of the female anatomy, it is best to know what your options are when trying to design a cervical cancer treatment plan.

The first option that should naturally come to mind is surgery. The type of surgery that is most often used is what is called a hysterectomy. In this procedure, the uterus and part of the vagina are removed. The lymph nodes made need to be removed as well, if it is discovered that the cancer has spread to them. Although effective, this is a highly invasive procedure and precludes bearing children.

A possible alternative is known as loop electro-surgical excision procedure also known in its shorter form as LEEP. This procedure is far gentler than the one described above and once it has been done, becoming pregnant is still possible. In addition to being a gentle alternative it is also a cheaper alternative.

Another option that you may want to explore is what is called a trachelectomy. In this type of procedure, the doctors will try to remove only the cancer while keeping the uterus and ovaries intact. This option is used when the cancer has not spread to other areas of the uterus.

Other options include radiation therapy, as well as complementary treatments and alternative treatments. It is important to speak no only with you doctor but also with your family. That way you can come up with a plan that includes those nearest to you. You are NOT alone.

Saturday, November 20, 2010

3 Possible Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

Ovarian cancer is a disease that affects the female reproductive organs. It starts when the process of cell division goes wrong in the ovaries and they start to multiply in a rapid and out of control way. This leads to a cancerous growth which then causes a tumour to form. It is not known exactly what causes this type of cancer but age, ovulation and family history are all thought to have an influence. If a tumour does form it often starts to press on the surrounding cells causing pain, discomfort and other undesirable symptoms in these areas. In this article I will be discussing three of these ovarian cancer symptoms in greater detail.

1) BLOATING OF THE STOMACH:- If you contract ovary cancer and the tumour grows large enough it may cause the stomach to physically bloat. Whilst bloating is not necessarily a sign of ovarian cancer it is a cause for concern if it cannot be explained. Therefore, if you notice that your stomach has become bloated and can think of no logical reason why go see your doctor straight away. They will be able to perform some tests and let you know what is causing your stomach to swell.

2) IRREGULAR PERIODS:- Normally the ovaries release an egg once a month. If this egg is not fertilised it passes out of the body during a woman's monthly period. However, if a cancerous tumour has developed it may block the ovaries making it difficult for eggs to be released. This may then have an impact on your periods. Therefore, if your periods seem to change for no apparent reason go see your doctor right away. Again there are many factors that can cause your periods to be irregular but your doctor will be able to let you know if it is related to ovarian cancer.

3) PAIN IN YOUR LOWER ABDOMEN OR SIDES:- If the tumour gets big enough it can start to place pressure on the ovaries. This can lead to pain in your lower abdomen or sides. Many women confuse these symptoms with PMS pains. However, if you start to experience them when you are not currently on your period you should go see your doctor immediately. The pains may not be related to ovarian cancer but your doctor will be able to perform the tests and let you know for sure.

I hope this article has given you a better insight in to some of the potential warning signs for ovarian cancer. Whilst your first instinct may be to brush these symptoms of as the result PMS, you should step back and think for a second before doing this. If there is no logical reason behind these symptoms then the chances are something is not right. They may be nothing to do with ovary cancer but it is far better to see your doctor and get a conclusive, professional opinion on the matter.

Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only. Ovarian cancer is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.

Friday, November 19, 2010

The Complications of Ovarian Cancer

The ovaries are truly one of nature's most beautiful and mind-boggling developments. They produce the ovum that eventually results in the miracle of human life. But, as with any part of the body that is complicated and involves multiple processes (and really, which parts don't?), the ovaries are vulnerable to cancerous growths.

Ovarian cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer in women, claiming around 15,000 lives every year. It develops primarily on the outer wall of the ovaries, known as the epithelium, but can appear in other regions as well. There is no definite cause of the disease, but there are certain identifiable risk factors.

Women who develop ovarian cancer usually share certain characteristics. The most well-documented of these has to do with pregnancy. Women who have their first pregnancy relatively earlier, and who become pregnant more often, and who have their last pregnancy at a later date, are all more likely to live a cancer-free life than women on the other end of this spectrum. It is unknown precisely by what mechanism this takes place. Some birth control pills have also been shown to prevent the cancer, if they are taken on a regular, long-term basis.

As with almost all forms of cancer, it is more likely to appear in people who have a family history of either ovarian cancer, or other forms of non-skin or blood cancers, for example colorectal cancer. Along with this difficulty in predicting who will suffer from the disease is the fact that its symptoms are generalized and relatively vague. Conditions that resemble gastrointestinal difficulties-indigestion, bloating, constipation, diarrhea-may be common across ovarian cancer victims. There are other symptoms, many of which could very well be mistaken for normal conditions of female physiology.

Due to the difficulty with diagnosing this disease in the earlier stages, it is often referred to as the silent killer. A term that references the fact that the disease, before it is detected, is likely to progress to the point where treatment is not very effective. It is not hopeless, however. There are some proven ways to prevent onset of ovarian cancer even though we don't know its exact cause. Having children earlier in life is one tactic, though this is exactly the opposite trend that we see amongst educated women today.

Another tactic is to have one's tubes tied. This procedure, known as a tubal ligation, dramatically reduces the chances of getting breast cancer, and it may be an especially good choice for women who have a family history of cancer. Less dramatic methods include daily consumption of birth control pills, or even aspirin (which has been shown to help, but the exact level of benefit is undetermined).

All in all we need to do more as a society to fight this silent killer. With many women waiting to have their children until their later years, it seems that it is even more important now than before to investigate the disease thoroughly.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

3 Types of Ovarian Cancer Explained

The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system. There are two ovaries (a left one and a right one) and when women get old enough to have children one of the ovaries releases an egg each month. These eggs then pass down the fallopian tube to the womb where they can be fertilised with sperm. If the eggs are not fertilised they exit the body during the woman's monthly period. Aside from releasing eggs, the ovaries are also responsible for producing oestrogen and progesterone.

Ovarian cancer develops when something goes wrong with the cell division process in the ovaries causing them to grow in a rapid and uncontrollable way. It is the fourth most common type of cancer in females with around 7,000 women contracting it in the UK each year. This condition is most prevalent in menopausal women and is rarely diagnosed in women under 40. There are three main types of ovarian cancer and I will be discussing each of them in greater detail below.

1) EPITHELIAL OVARIAN CANCER:- This type of cancer occurs when the cells that line the ovaries (the epithelium) start to grow in a rapid, out of control way. Between 70% and 80% of ovary cancers are this type and it is almost always diagnosed in women who have been through the menopause.

2) GERM CELL OVARIAN CANCER:- This type of cancer develops when the germ cells (the cells responsible for making eggs) start to grow rapidly and uncontrollably. Approximately 15% of ovary cancers are this type and unlike the other forms of this disease, germ cell ovarian cancer normally affects younger women.

3) STROMAL OVARIAN CANCER:- This type of cancer develops when the connective tissues of the ovaries become cancerous and start to grow in a rapid, uncontrollable way. Between 5% and 10% of ovary cancers are this type. This variation normally only affects one of the two ovaries.

Although there are three main kinds of ovarian cancer the risk factors, symptoms, tests, treatments and survival rates are similar for each. Women who contract this type of cancer have a five year survival rate of around 75% if it stays within the ovaries although this drops to about 20% if the cancer spreads to other areas of the body. It is not known exactly what causes this disease but age, obesity and family history are all thought to have an influence. The symptoms of ovary cancer are often very mild or non-existent but when they do surface they include bloating, constipation and stomach pain. If you are diagnosed with this condition surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the three most common treatment options.

I hope this article has given you a brief overview of this condition. Whilst being diagnosed with cancer is never going to be a pleasant experience this type of cancer is very treatable if caught early. If you have any concerns regarding ovary cancer then go see your doctor and explain your concerns. They will be able to answer your questions and give you a professional, qualified opinion.

Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only. Ovarian cancer is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Learn About the Stages of Cervical Cancer Part II


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Previously, we took a look at the first two stages in cervical cancer development. In this concluding piece, we take a look at the remaining three.

In stage III, cancer has spread to the lower third of the vagina and may have spread to the pelvic wall and nearby lymph nodes. Stage III is divided into stages IIIA and IIIB, again based on how far the cancer has spread.

In IIIA, the cervical cancer has spread to the lower third of the vagina but not to the pelvic wall. In IIIB, Cancer has spread to the pelvic wall and/or the tumor has become large enough to block the ureters (the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder). This blockage can cause the kidneys to enlarge or stop working. Cancer cells may also have spread to lymph nodes in the pelvis.

In stage IV, cancer has spread to the bladder, rectum, or other parts of the body. Stage IV is divided into stages IVA and IVB, based on where the cancer is found.

At IVA, the cancer has spread to the bladder or rectal wall and may have spread to lymph nodes in the pelvis. In IVB, the cancer has spread beyond the pelvis and pelvic lymph nodes to other places in the body, such as the abdomen, liver, intestinal tract, or lungs.

These basically sum up vital information about the stages of cervical cancer. It is your job to continue to educate yourself and have the feeling of power over cancer - and not let cancer take over you. I wish you the best of luck.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Cervical Cancer - 3 Ways Detect it Early

In the previous years, women aged 60 and above were the ones most prone to cervical cancer. But with the 2009 report, an alarming 58% of these cases were women within the age range of 40 and 50 years old only. With such stats, it is therefore important to know the signs of cervical carcinoma so that its symptoms can be contained. Advanced cases of this type of medical condition can become invasive, which means that there is a very good chance that the cancer cells will afflict surround tissues and muscles as well.

So what are the most common signs of cervical cancer?

1. Abnormal vaginal bleeding. Abnormal bleeding or signs of unusual blood spotting is one of the more common signs of the pre-cancer stages of the cervix. It may come in various forms like: blood spotting between menstrual periods, bouts of heavy and light menstruation, vaginal bleeding after sex, blood spotting after the menopausal stage and even vaginal bleeding after douching. In some cases, the woman may experience unusual discharge between menstruation's.

2. Pain during sexual intercourse. Vaginal bleeding is often preceded by pain during sexual intercourse. This may be due to the increased sensitivity or inflammation of the tissues and muscles of the cervix. In advanced stages, pain in this area is an indication that the cancer cells have already spread out to the surrounding areas.

3. Pain during normal bodily functions. Two other signs of cervical cancer include pain during peeing and bowel movement. Pain brought about by UTI or urinary tract infection is another indication that the muscles of the reproductive system is on a hyper sensitive stage.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer is a cancer of the womb, which is also referred to as a uterine cancer. The uterus is located in the pelvic area and is shaped similar to that of a papaya or a pear. 90% of all uterine cancers are endometrial cancers, and are the third most common amongst women.

The cancer occurs in the cells of the inner lining of the uterus which is called the endometrium. As this lining grows, cancer is formed. Medical professionals do not know the cause of endometrium cancer, but the majority of evidences point to having been exposed to high levels of estrogen.

Endometrial cancer mainly affects women who have gone through menopause, especially those who are 55 years of age, or older.

Some of the risk factors include obesity, a high intake of animal proteins and fats, diabetics, women who have had breast or ovarian cancer, women who have been treated with tamoxifen, women who have never had children, have irregular menstrual cycles, and have high blood pressure.

The good thing about endometrial cancers is that it is highly treatable. Most women are able to detect the symptoms at an early enough stage for treatments to be effective and cure the cancer.

Some of the signs and symptoms associated with Endometrial cancer are:


Bleeding or spotting, beginning at 12 months after menopause. This is usually the first sign and it may not always be the result of cancer, but nevertheless, it should be checked out by a medical professional.
Bleeding in between periods in pre-menopausal women. This also may not be a sign of cancer, but still should be checked out just to be on the safe side.
Any unusual vaginal discharge which is not related to the menstrual cycle may also be a sign of cancer.
Unusual long, heavy or frequent vaginal bleedings after the age of 40.
A thin white, or clear vaginal discharge after menopause.
Bleeding after intercourse.
Pain during intercourse.
Trouble urinating.
Lower abdominal pain.
Pelvic pain might also be a symptom, although this rarely occurs.
Weight loss, loss of appetite, and fatigue are also symptoms which should not be ignored.

If you are at risk for developing endometrial cancer and you are experiencing any of the above symptoms you need to have it checked out by a medical professional. A biopsy will be done to determine whether cancer is present or not. If cancer is present, or suspected, a sample of the endometrium will be removed for further testing.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Cancer that begins in the ovaries or the fallopian tubes is called ovarian cancer. The risk of ovarian cancer rises with age. More than 50 % of deaths due to ovarian caner occur in women between 55 and 74, and about a 25 % in women between 35 and 54. Ovarian cancer has been termed the 'Silent Killer' even in medical textbooks because there are no symptoms until a considerably advanced stage of the disease. Recent studies, however, show that though there are no symptoms that are characteristic to ovarian cancer, the following warning signs manifest a few months before the cancer is detected:

Pelvic, abdominal, or back pain

Weight gain or weight loss

Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge (heavy menstrual flow or menopausal bleeding)

Discomfort during sex

Frequent or intense need to urinate; burning sensation or spasms while urinating

Feeling full even though you haven't eaten much

Vague gastro-intestinal problems, like gas, indigestion, loss of appetite, bloating, nausea and vomiting, bloody stool, prolonged constipation or diarrhoea

Unexplained increase in waistline

Shortness of breath

Fatigue

If you experience any of the above symptoms over two or three weeks and if it gets worse with time, you should get yourself tested for ovarian cancer. As these symptoms could be associated with any other disease or minor ailment, it is impossible to diagnose ovarian cancer on their merit alone. The doctor will conduct a pelvic exam, an abdominal or vaginal ultrasound, and a blood test to check for the presence of CA 125. None of these tests are conclusive in themselves. But, a positive count on two or more of the tests should be followed by a biopsy (laparotomy) or a laparoscopy to rule out or diagnose ovarian cancer.

A very small percentage of women facing these symptoms are diagnosed with the dreaded disease. And sometimes, women can reach the very last stages of cancer with no symptoms at all. The best you can do is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and undergo an annual examination to catch the cancer before it metastasizes.

Friday, November 12, 2010

The Stages Of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a slow-growing and malignant cancer. The cancer cells are formed in the cells on the surface of the cervix, which is located in the pelvic area. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus, and is the tubular muscle which connects the uterus to the birth canal.

Cervical cancer is mainly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is spread by sexual contact. This virus does not always cause cancer, but it is the cause in most cases. Whether or not this virus will lead to cancer depends on the lifestyle and immune system of that individual. Those with a strong immune system can normally fight the virus.

There are basically two main types of cancerous cells in cervical cancer. The Squamous cell carcinomas and the Adenocarcinomas. 80 to 90 percent of all cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. These begin in the thin cells which line the bottom of the cervix. 10 to 20 percent are Adenocarcinomas, and they begin in the glandular cells which line the upper part of the cervix.

What are the stages of cervical cancer?

Basically there are 5 stages of this cancer, and they usually are numbered 0-4. If the cancer is not stopped in time it will spread to the uterus, bladder, abdomen, lungs and other organs. Once it spreads to the organs, there is little or no hope of survival.

Stage 0.) At this stage the cancer cells exist only on the surface of the cervix, and have not begun to spread into the deeper tissues.

Stage 1.) The cancer still remains in the cervix, but the cells have begun to spread into the deeper tissues.

Stage 2.) The cancer has begun to spread to the surrounding tissues of the cervix, and possibly the upper part of the vagina.

Stage 3.) The cancer is starting to spread outside of the cervix. It either spreads down and into the vagina, and into the muscles that line the lower pelvic wall. Or it spreads up towards the

bladder where it can block the flow of urine coming from the kidneys and draining into the bladder.

Stage 4.) The cancer is spreading to the rest of the body, the uterus, and vital organs.

Symptoms of cervical cancer may not appear until the later stages of the cancer, but abnormal or pre-cancerous cells can be detected with a pap smear before the cancer occurs. The sooner the cancer is detected, the greater chance of surviving it.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Signs and Treatment of Ovarian Cancer

Cancer is a very efficient and skilled silent killer. There are various types of cancer in fact, and these cancers are nothing but a condition in which the cells multiply in an uncontrollable manner forming masses of cells called tumors.

Ovarian cancer is associated with women and it is a very dangerous situation. Ovaries are the most important reproductive organ in any women. These ovaries produce eggs or ova and are passed through the fallopian tubes to the uterus where these eggs are fertilized by sperms, if any sperms are available at that time. Ovary cancer affects these ovaries. Let us take a look at some of the signs and treatments usually done for ovarian cancer.

Let us always keep in mind that cancer is not like common cold and can't be treated in that way. Some cancers show signs at a very early stage whereas some show signs only at a later stage. Usually there are no specific signs just for ovary cancer. Signs usually show up at a later stage and these signs are also associated with many other medical situations. So it is pretty tough to draw out conclusions when you face certain symptoms. At a beginning stage ovary cancer remains silent and signs start popping out only when the tumor has got big enough to affect other parts of the body as well.

The only earlier symptom known to be associated with ovarian cancer is the irregularity of menstrual cycles. Later symptoms include excessive pain or pressure in the pelvic area. You might feel terrible pain while having intercourse; a slight swelling of lower abdomen is also a symptom at a later stage, feeling of fullness and an urge to urinate frequently, constipation is another situation associated with ovary cancer at a later stage.

Nausea and also vomiting is noted at a later stage, frequent diarrhea and forming gas, abdominal pain due to fluids formed and etc. These signs however show up at a later stage and one might mistake these symptoms for some minor health issues. Always get a check up when you come across any symptoms; a stitch in time always saves nine.

Treatment of ovarian cancer is usually chemotherapy and surgery. In the early stages only the ovary infected with cancer cells and that particular fallopian tubes will be removed. But if the stage worsens, even the uterus will have to be removed along with ovary and fallopian tubes. The preventive techniques are basically stopping ovulation or preventing ovulation, like taking birth control pills, getting pregnant so often, tying the fallopian tubes. However these are not 100 percent guaranteed preventive measure.

Keep a check on your health from time to time. If there are any symptoms that show up frequently then get it clarified. Regular full body checkups can be of great help as you can figure out things that go around in your body. Health is always wealth, so try to always save some budget for your health and always keep you health insurance valid. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and eat healthy.

You should consider taking regular workouts and a proper routine that your body will find peace with. If everything goes well you can stay away from such situations to a great extent. Ovarian cancer is a dangerous situation, and make sure you do everything from your side to prevent it.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

A Cancer-Prone System

Starting from the outside, the key elements in the female reproductive system are the vulva (or outer lips), the vagina (or birth canal), the cervix (a doughnut-shaped structure that is at the entrance to the uterus), the uterus, or womb (inside which a baby grows before birth), the fallopian tubes (along which fertilised eggs travel to the uterus) and the ovaries (where the eggs and various hormones are made). Not all of these organs and tissues are equally liable to cancer. For example, cancer attacks the fallopian tubes rarely; the vulva and vagina, more often; and the ovaries, the walls of the uterus (the endometricum) and the cervix most frequently. Each type of cancer requires specific diagnosis and treatment. Uterine cancer accounts for about four percent of all cancers in women; cervical cancer, for about three percent. Thanks to increased public awareness, early detection the death rate for cervical and uterine cancer has declined in recent decades.

It is not unusual for a serious disease to share the same symptoms with a relatively unimportant problem. This is especially true of cervical cancer and other cancers of the reproductive system. For example, two common symptoms of cancer of the vulva are itching and a burning pain, conditions that can also be caused by vulvar infections. A change in a vulvar mole or freckle, or any bump, growth or ulcer that does not heal within two weeks, may or may not, signal cancer. Cervical cancer is often symptomless, at least in its early stages, but in time, it causes abnormal vaginal bleeding or increased vaginal discharge. The discharge may begin as a watery discharge streaked with blood, but eventually the discharge will contain greater quantities of blood.

Having a symptom of gynaecological cancer does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. It does mean that you should see a doctor for a complete pelvic examination and further tests to rule out the possibility of cancer. Age seems to be the main factor that affects a woman's chances of developing cervical cancer or any other cancer of her reproductive organs. The danger years vary, but fall within the 40-65 year old age span. The years of greatest risk for cervical cancer appear to be between 40 and 49. The odds that a woman will develop any type of gynaecological cancer increase after menopause.

Each reproductive organ also has its own specific risk factors. Studies reveal that cancer of the cervix occurs more often in women who become sexually active early in life, who have contracted a sexually transmitted disease such as genital warts, who have had many sexual partners, whose sexual partners have had many sexual contacts, or who smoke. More cases of cervical cancer also occur among women who use oral contraceptives than among those who rely on a diaphragm, condoms or an intrauterine device (IUD).

Two routine screening examinations are available for women, the cervical smear test (Pap smear test) and the pelvic examination, which may detect gynaecological cancer - or conditions that may lead to it - long before a woman notices anything wrong. In the cervical smear test, a metal instrument called a speculum is used to open up the vagina and examine the cervix. With the speculum in place, the doctor uses a wooden spatula or cotton wool swab to rub off a sample of cells from the surface of the cervix; the sample is transferred onto a glass slide and sent to the laboratory for examination under the a microscope. The test is designed to detect the presence of abnormal (precancer) cells that in some cases may develop into cervical cancer. Even if such cells are found, it does not mean that you have cancer or will get it later; it does mean, though, that more tests and possibly treatment are necessary. If the cervix shows inflammatory changes or if you have had an abnormal smear, the doctor may also examine the cervix with a magnifying instrument called a colposcope. After examining the cervix, the doctor will do a pelvic examination by passing a gloved finger up inside the vagina while pressing down on the abdomen with the other hand. In this way he may be able to detect abnormalities in the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Depending on your age, your past and present sexual habits, whether you are at high risk for developing cervical cancer, will determine how often you should be examined. Generally, any factor that increases the risk of developing cancer increases the need for regular check-ups. Cervical cancer detected early can usually be cured without affecting a woman's ability to have children, but a more advanced cancer might require a hysterectomy - the surgical removal of the uterus and the cervix, which makes it impossible for her to have children.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Natural Treatments For Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is formed in the cells on the surface of the cervix. The cervix is located in the pelvic area and is the lower part of the uterus which connects the uterus to the birth canal. Cervical cancer is a form of uterine cancer, and is a slow-growing malignant cancer.

Cervical cancer is mainly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) which is spread through sexual contact. This virus can live in the body for many years before any cancer is formed, and in some cases the cancer never forms. The reason the cancer does not form in some individuals who have the virus, is because they have a healthy lifestyle and a strong immune system.

So by building a strong immune system, one can prevent this cancer from forming. To build a healthy immune system one must consume a healthy diet. Animal proteins should be avoided, including all meat, dairy, and poultry. Processed foods, refined sugars, and most cooked foods should be eliminated from the diet.

Then we need to add in the good stuff like lots of fruits and vegetables, herbs, nuts and seeds. Freshly squeezed fruit juices are also essential in helping to build a strong immune system.

But what if cancer has already formed, is there still a way to be healed naturally? Absolutely. Botanical and Chinese medicines have been very effective in treating and curing cancer.

There are also home remedies which can be taken at home. Some of them include:

Apricot seeds: Apricot seeds contain vitamin B17 which helps to kill cancerous cells. Simply add them to your daily diet in your smoothies. Other seeds that contain vitamin B17 are apple, chia, flax and sesame seeds.

Tea: Natural teas are not only a great substitute for other sugary drinks that contribute to the growth and formation of cancerous cells, but they can help to flush out the toxins to help prevent the cancer from spreading. Ginger is very effective in not only preventing the cancer from spreading, but the gingerols contained in ginger can help to kill the cancerous cells. Thus ginger tea is very beneficial. Other teas to include in your diet are spearmint and dandelion teas.

Other natural remedies include the use of Burr Marigold, Goji berries, Brazil nuts, Luffah, Cat's Claw, Neem Leaves and Neem Flowers, Muskmelon, Pine pollen, Rosemary, Ginkgo, Saffron, and Artichoke.

If one can be healed using these remedies, then one can also prevent the cancer from occurring in the first place, just by making them a part of a living food diet.

Monday, November 8, 2010

The Stages of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer begins to form in one or both of the ovaries which are located on the sides of the uterus, one on each side. The small, almond sized ovaries are responsible for the production of the eggs and releasing them into the fallopian tubes.

The ovaries are also responsible for producing two female hormones known as estrogen and progesterone. Before and during ovulation these hormone levels are higher than usual, and if they become too high, they may cause the ovarian tumors to form. There are two types of tumors, one is cancerous (malignant), and the other is non-cancerous (benign).

If the tumors are cancerous then they will spread to the outside of the ovaries and eventually spread to adjacent tissues and organs located in the pelvis and abdomen. They can also spread through the bloodstream and lymph nodes to other parts of the body.

Because the early symptoms of ovarian cancers are hard to diagnose, most cancers are not detected until the later stages. Only about 20 percent of the tumors are discovered before the cancer has begun to spread past the ovaries.

The symptoms are often misdiagnosed because they are similar to those of other common illnesses such as digestive problems including gas or bloating, bladder disorders, constipation, fatigue and lower back pain. The only way to distinguish between the symptoms is that those associated with common illnesses will disappear within a day or two, but those associated with ovarian cancer will gradually become worse as the cancer continues to spread.

There are basically 4 stages to ovarian cancer to help determine how far the cancer has spread in the body. The stages are numbered 1 to 4.

Stage 1.) At stage one, the cancer may affect one or both ovaries, and may have begun to spread to the outside of the ovaries.

Stage 2.) The cancer may affect on one or both ovaries, and has begun to spread to other parts of the pelvic area such as the fallopian tubes, uterus, bladder or rectum.

Stage 3.) The cancer may affect on one or both ovaries, and has begun to spread to the lining of the abdomen or to the lymph nodes.

Stage 4: The cancer may affect on one or both ovaries, and has begun to spread to the liver or the lungs.

Ovarian cancer is treatable if caught in an early enough stage, and the form of treatments given depends on how far the cancer has spread throughout the body.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Cervical Cancer - Detect It Early

Cervical cancer ranks high on the list of common cancers that plague women worldwide; it comes second after breast cancer in prevalence. More than 300,000 women die of cervical cancer every year, worldwide, while in the United States alone, 13,000 cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed every year, with about 4,000 deaths. Most cases of cervical cancer are reported in women between 40 and 55years of age, though it is not unusual for women in their late thirties to be infected.

However, unlike breast and other forms of cancer, the cause and factors inducing cervical cancer is well established, except in very limited number of cases. The culprit in most cases of cervical cancer is a sexually transmitted virus known as the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). This virus can remain in the female genitalia for a very long time, wreaking havoc on the cells of the cervix over a long period of time. It is reported that not all cases of HPV infections lead to cervical cancer, however what is clear is that the virus is capable of inducing abnormal changes in the cervical cells. Some of these abnormal changes in the cells result in what is medically known as 'high grade lesions', which, sometimes may progress into cervical cancer.

Though HPV is recognized as the reason behind most cases of cervical cancer, there are other factors that play important roles in the cause and progression of cervical cancer, these include; numerous sex partners over a period of time; this increases the chance of HPV infection, the presence of other sexually transmitted diseases, weak immune system, which reduces the ability of the body to fight the virus, early sexual activity, as non-matured cells of the cervix are more likely to succumb to viral infection, and sometimes, cigarette smoking, though this has not been conclusively established. It is important to point out that the body's immune system is usually capable of suppressing the viral activity of HPV, thus cervical cancer only results in women whose immune system could not sufficiently control the virus.

Pap smears are the only established method for cervical cancer screening. This test involves brushing cells off the surface of the cervix and examining the cells under a microscope for the presence of cancerous or precancerous changes or lesions. Presently, Pap smear is a routine test for women in most developed countries and this has really helped to reduce the number of deaths that are recorded due to cervical cancer. However, some critics have argued that the Pap smear test is not always completely accurate. It is advisable to carry out the test in at least two laboratories, seek at least two professional opinions and then compare, especially if you observe early symptoms of cervical cancer or you believe you are perfectly alright but the test result shows otherwise.

Though there are no clear cut symptoms of cervical cancer, as it often progress without warning, the presence of the following symptoms or signs might be an indication of the presence of cervical cancer; vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse or pain during intercourse, unusual vaginal discharge, unusual bleeding between menstrual periods or abnormally heavy bleeding during menstrual periods, increased urine frequency or pelvic pain. Again, these symptoms do not necessarily mean that you have cervical cancer, but they are good reasons for you to go see your doctor.

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Ovarian Cancer - 7 Early Warning Signs

Ovarian cancer is often called "The Silent Killer" because the symptoms are so nonspecific and are often blamed on something else. Thus it is possible to have been experiencing early warning signs of this disease for years and not realize anything is seriously wrong. This is very understandable, as the symptoms, if they are seen at all, most often seem benign at first. However, if you have had one or more of these symptoms for several weeks or months, please consider calling your physician and scheduling a check-up. Cancer is a scary word and most people would prefer to just assume everything is fine and hope whatever is bothering them simply "goes away." However, consider that ovarian cancer statistics show that 70% to 80% of diagnoses are made in late stages when the prognosis is not so good. To give yourself the best chance at long-term survival and even a complete cure, these are 7 of the symptoms to watch out for:

1. Persistent indigestion.

2. Bloating, feeling of fullness, tightness of clothes.

3. Painful intercourse, or dyspareunia.

4. Pelvic discomfort or pain.

5. Unexplained weight loss or weight gain.

6. Leg pain.

7. Change in character of menstrual periods.

Clearly, some or even most of these symptoms are common enough and could be problematic for women on occasion and most of the time it really is just overindulgence at the local Mexican eatery, too much Turkey dinner, that time of the month, or a strained leg muscle. However, if you experience any of these symptoms consistently on a regular basis it is possible they could be early warning signs of ovarian cancer so have your doctor check you out for peace of mind. Remember, your best chance is an early diagnosis.

Friday, November 5, 2010

Early Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer - Pay Attention, Ladies!

The problem with diagnosing ovarian cancer in the early stages is that women may not have symptoms until the cancer has progressed, or the symptoms they have are mistaken for something else. Even when women go to their doctor with symptoms, it can be months before the cancer is diagnosed. It has often spread to other parts of the body by then.

Ovarian Cancer is the 4th leading cause of death in women. It is the number one killer of women over all the gynecologic cancers. Here are the symptoms of ovarian cancer and how we (and they) explain them away:

Bloating in the lower abdominal area - Jeans are too tight. Explanation: Gas or water retention due to menstruation.

Pressure. Explanation: Gas, water retention, possible constipation.

Gastrointestinal problems - gas, change in bowel habits, pain. Explanation: Unhealthy food, IBS, "stomachache"

Urinary problems - burning, spasming, the urge to go frequently. Explanation: UTI - urinary tract infection

Fatigue and/or fever - You're exhausted and you have a temperature. Explanation: The flu. Need a vacation. Coupled with urinary problems? UTI

Back pain - Pain in the lower back. Explanation: Pulled a muscle. Lifted too much. Kidney infection.

Breathing difficulties- Tightness in the chest, problems inhaling. Explanation: Asthma, allergies, heart or lung problem.

Vaginal bleeding or discharge. Explanation: Irregular periods, yeast infection

Pain during intercourse. Explanation: Pressure from bloating.

Of all the symptoms, the two that most often bring women to the doctor are abdominal bloating and pain with intercourse. Even when other symptoms bother women enough to make an appointment, the symptoms are often thought to be indicators of something else. Often, it isn't until other possible diagnoses have been excluded that attention is turned to the ovaries.

Of course, any or all of these can be symptoms may be explained by any of the above. The best guideline to go by is to pay attention to how many of them you have and for how long it has been going on. If you are experiencing some or all of these early symptoms for more than two weeks, ask your doctor about possible ovarian cancer. Here are the tests you should ask for:

a) Bimanual pelvic exam

b) Ca125 blood test

c) Transvaginal ultrasound

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Cervical Cancer, the End is Near

Is it true a vaccine to end the threat of cervical cancer? Chock one up for modern science, maybe it is good that the Drug Companies are making such high profits after all and have so many lobbyists in Washington D.C. if they can keep solving these problems that plague mankind or in this case Womankind. And this is just the kind of thing woman can be happy for as it nixes one more type of cancer that could potentially take one's life.

The vaccine is comes in three shots taken in series and is said to be 100% effective in preventing cervical cancer. The vaccine's maker is Merch and Company and the vaccine protects against four viral strains. HPV or Human Papilloma Virus is the cause of cervical cancer and genital warts. Over two million Americans are carriers of some form of HPV, meaning it would not take very many partners to hurt the law of averages and put one at risk.

Cervical Cancer kills about 300,000 worldwide and about 4,000 each year in the United States. The vaccine is best taken before girls become sexually active, which ensures 100% protection. Modern medicine is making headway on many types of cancer and this latest breakthrough is an awesome thing. Some day human beings will not have to worry about cancer, until that day, each new cure, treatment or vaccine is one step closer to that goal. Think on it.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Discover the Symptoms of Uterine Cancer

If you are concerned about the possibility of developing uterine cancer, one of the ways you can ease your mind is by know about and watching for, the symptoms associated with it.

The following are the most common symptoms of uterine cancer. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently.

Symptoms may include:

- Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge.
- Difficult or painful urination.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Pain in the pelvic area.
- A pelvic lump.
- Weight loss.
- Has never breast-fed.

As has been written in a previous article, uterine cancer does not occur before menopause. It usually occurs around the time menopause begins. The occasional reappearance of bleeding should not be considered simply part of menopause. It should always be checked by a physician.

The symptoms of uterine cancer may resemble other conditions or medical problems such as cervical cancer and dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Always talk to your doctor if these symptoms persist or worsen. 

The main symptom to look for is abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause as it is the most common symptom of uterine cancer. Bleeding may start as a watery, blood-streaked flow that gradually contains more blood. About 20 out of 100 women who have abnormal bleeding after menopause have uterine cancer. This means that 80 out of 100 do not get uterine cancer. The most accurate way to diagnose whether or not you have uterine cancer is through a biopsy.  In this test, the doctor removes a small sample of the lining of the uterus to look for cancer cells.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Explanation of Stage Four Cervical Cancer


Image : http://www.flickr.com


The cervix is at the bottom of the uterus, the place where a baby grows during pregnancy. Cervical cancer is caused by some type of virus called human papillomaviruses (HPV). The virus spreads through sexual contact. Most of the female body able to fight HPV infection. But sometimes the virus causes cancer. You are at higher risk if you smoke, have many children, the Pill for a long time, or HIV infection.

Cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms at first, but then, you may feel pain in your pelvis or bleeding from the vagina. Usually it took several years for normal cells in the cervix change into cancer cells. Your health care provider can find abnormal cells in Pap test - examining cells from the cervix under a microscope. By doing regular Pap tests and pelvic exams, you will be able to find and treat the cells before they turn into cancer. Vaccine for girls and young women can protect against four types of HPV that cause most cervical cancers.

Doctors recommend that women reduce the risk of cervical cancer with Pap smears regularly. Pap test (sometimes called a Pap smear or cervical smear) is a simple test used to look at cervical cells. Pap tests can find cervical cancer or abnormal cells that can cause cervical cancer. Finding and treating abnormal cells can prevent most cervical cancer. In addition, Pap tests can help find cancer early, when treatment is more effective.

The Stages:

Stages of cancer based on where cancer is found. The following are the stages of invasive cervical cancer:

- Stage I: The tumor has invaded the cervix beneath the upper layer cells. Cancer cells are found only in the cervix.

- Stage II: The tumor extends into the upper vagina. Perhaps beyond the cervix into nearby tissues to the pelvic wall (lining of the body between the hips). The tumor did not attack the lower third of the vagina or pelvic wall.

- Stage III: Tumor extends to the underside of the vagina. May also have invaded the pelvic wall. If the tumors block the flow of urine, one or both kidneys can not work properly.

- Stage IV: Tumor attack the bladder or rectum. Or the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

- Recurrent cancer: Cancer has been treated, but had returned after a period of time that can not be detected. Cancer can arise again in the cervix or in other parts of the body.

Women with cervical cancer have many treatment options. The options are surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or combination of methods. Choice of treatment depends mainly on tumor size and whether the cancer has spread. Treatment options may also depend on whether you plan to become pregnant someday. Your doctor can describe your treatment options, expected results of each treatment, and possible side effects. You and your doctor can work together to develop a plan of your medical care appropriate to individual needs.

Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, or you can ask for referrals. You may want to see gynecologic oncology, a surgeon who specializes in treating women's cancers. Other specialists who treat cervical cancer included gynecologists, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists. Your health care team may also include an oncology nurse, and registered dieticians.

Before treatment starts, ask your health care team about the possible side effects and how treatment can change your normal activities. Because cancer treatments often damage healthy cells and tissues, side effects are common. Side effects may not be the same for everyone, and may be changed at a subsequent treatment sessions. At each stage of the disease, additional treatments are available to reduce the side effects of treatment, to control pain and other symptoms, and help you overcome the feelings that arise due to cancer diagnostics.

Monday, November 1, 2010

Uterine Cancer - Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Uterine Cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, which actually start in the lining of the cells in the uterus. The womb or the uterus is a vital part of the reproductive system in a woman.

Type of Uterine Cancer

That cancer may denote various types of cancers, which occur in a woman's uterus. Uterine sarcomas, commonly known to be leiomyosarcomas are a type of uterine cancer, which occurs in the muscular layer of a uterus. Endometrial cancer is another type of uterine cancer, which originates from the cells that are located in the glands of the uterine lining or the endometrium. Cervical cancer is a different type of uterine cancer, which is known to arise from the lower portion of a uterus. It extends to the transitional zone of a woman's cervix and connecting to the upper part of her vagina.

Symptoms

A woman having uterine cancer can notice some common symptoms. However, they may differ from person to person depending upon the disease in consideration. Commons symptoms include painful or difficult urination, unusual discharge or vagina bleeding, extreme pain during the time of having sexual intercourse, a typical pelvic lump, abnormal weight loss, pain in the pelvic region and having never breast-fed. In fact, uterine cancer occurs rarely before menopause, during which a woman have regular menstrual periods.

It generally occurs during the time when the regular menstruation cycle stops. If a woman notices reappearance of bleeding at this stage of her life, she should immediately bring it to the attention of her general physician, as there may be a possibility of uterine cancer.

The most common symptom of uterine cancer is abnormal bleeding from a woman's uterus after her menopause. The bleeding may be in the form of a blood streaked, watery discharge containing more blood. In some cases, a woman may experience lower abdominal pain too.

Causes

There are different causes of uterine cancer, which have been discovered till date. Diabetes, obesity, polycystic ovaries having prolonged anovulation, nulliparity or having borne not a single child, lack of menstruation, extended usage of tamoxifen for the treatment of breast cancers and taking unopposed estrogen without progestin are some of the valid causes of uterine cancer.

Diagnosing the Disease

The cancer can be diagnosed by endometrial and endocervical sampling. Apart from these techniques, vaginal ultrasonography is also used to detect the thickness of the endometrium because increased thickness of the uterus may determine some serious cancerous change. Apart from this, the Pap test can also be an accurate way detecting uterine cancer but cannot be termed as a reliable source.

Treatment

The treatment of this cancer is performed on the basis of grade and stage of the cancer. Abdominal hysterectomy is a standard therapy, which involves in the surgical removal of the woman's uterus along with both the ovaries and fallopian tubes, washing of the abdominal cavity to determine malignant cells and the selective removal of the aortic and pelvic lymph nodes. Many doctors prefer usage of hormone therapy that removes the possibility of metastatic cancer. Again, women also opt for radiation therapy for the treatment of their uterine cancer.

Although treatment is a possibility for Uterine Cancer, still you should take immediate action after noticing the symptoms. Don't let it reach a level from where it cannot be cured!

To Your Health!

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