Bloating is a symptom that most people perceive as a harmless consequence of overeating or poor nutrition. However, doctors warn that in some cases it can be a sign of a dangerous disease, including ovarian cancer.
The abdomen may feel hard or excessively full, often accompanied by pain and a feeling of heaviness. If this is accompanied by weight loss, it is worth paying attention - such signs may indicate ascites, which is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Ascites often occurs when cancer cells spread in the body.
Doctors explain that this symptom can be caused not only by malignant, but also by benign tumors. But the danger is that most women do not associate bloating with oncology.
According to British research, only 34% of women seek medical attention for bloating. Others try to solve the problem themselves - change their diet or ignore the symptom altogether. More than half of those surveyed admitted that they were not even aware of the possible link between bloating and ovarian cancer.
Doctors emphasize that early diagnosis is critical. If the symptom does not disappear within a few days or is accompanied by other signs - pain, weight loss or problems with appetite - it is necessary to consult a doctor.
