Endometrial cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. It occurs when cancer cells form in the lining of the uterus, which is also known as the endometrium. Early symptoms of endometrial cancer may include abnormal bleeding or spotting, pelvic pain, and changes in your menstrual cycle. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s important to see your doctor if you experience any of them in order to treat endometrial cancer. Here are 10 potential symptoms of endometrial cancer that you should be aware of.
1. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding or Spotting
Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), or vaginal spotting, is defined as bleeding from the vagina that occurs at an abnormally frequent rate or in unusually large volumes. It can be a sign of several different conditions, some of which are benign (non-cancerous) and some of which are malignant (cancerous). Because abnormal bleeding can be a symptom of uterine cancer, it is important to see a doctor if you experience any type of AUB. symptoms of endometrial cancer risk include bleeding that is much heavier or lasts longer than usual, bleeding between periods, spotting after menopause, and bleeding after sex.
2. Pelvic Pain or Pressure
Pelvic pain is discomfort that is felt in the lower abdomen, pelvis, and buttocks. It can be a dull ache, a sharp pain, or a cramping sensation. Pelvic pain can be caused by many different conditions, including endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and ovarian cysts. However, it can also be a symptom of endometrial cancer. If you experience pelvic pain that is new or unusual for you, it is important to see a doctor so that the cause can be determined.
3. Changes In Your Menstrual Cycle
The most common change in menstrual cycles associated with endometrial cancer is menorrhagia, which is defined as abnormally heavy or unusual vaginal bleeding. Menorrhagia can be caused by several different conditions, including fibroids, polyps, and adenomyosis. However, it is also a common symptom of endometrial cancer. Other risk factors in your menstrual cycle that may be symptoms of endometrial cancer include irregular periods, bleeding after sex, and bleeding after menopause.
4. Fatigue
Fatigue is a feeling of tiredness that is not relieved by rest. It can be caused by many different factors, including stress, sleep deprivation, and medical conditions. Fatigue can also be a symptom of endometrial cancer. If you are experiencing fatigue that is new or unusual for you, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause.
5. Pelvic Mass
A pelvic mass is a growth or tumor that is located in the pelvis. It can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). A pelvic mass can be caused by many different conditions, including fibroids, cysts, and endometriosis. However, it can also be a symptom of endometrial cancer. If you experience a pelvic mass, it is important to seek professional advice so that the cause can be determined.
6. Urinary Symptoms
Urinary symptoms are any changes in urinary frequency, urgency, or incontinence. They can be caused by many different conditions, including infection, bladder stones, and interstitial cystitis. However, they can also be symptoms of endometrial cancer. If you experience any urinary symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice so that the cause can be determined.
7. Bloating or Feeling Full
Bloating is a feeling of fullness or pressure in the abdomen that is not relieved by passing gas or having a bowel movement. It can be caused by many different conditions, including constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and ovarian cysts. However, it can also be a symptom of endometrial cancer. If you experience bloating that is new or unusual for you, it is important to visit a hospital so that the cause can be determined.
8. Difficulty Eating or Feeling Full Quickly
Difficulty eating, or feeling full quickly, can be caused by many different conditions, including gastroparesis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and early satiety. However, it can also be a symptom of endometrial cancer. If you experience difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, it is important to seek medical help.
9. Nausea or Vomiting
Nausea is an uncomfortable feeling in the stomach that is often accompanied by the urge to vomit. It can be caused by many different conditions, including food poisoning, pregnancy, and anxiety. However, it can also be a symptom of endometrial cancer. If you experience nausea or vomiting that is new or unusual for you, it is important to seek advice from a qualified medical practitioner.
10. Changes in Bowel Habits
Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or blood in the stool, can be caused by many different conditions, including infection, irritable bowel syndrome, and colorectal cancer. However, they can also be symptoms of endometrial cancer. If you experience any changes in your bowel habits that are new or unusual for you, it is important to see a doctor so that the cause can be determined.
Tips and Tricks
There are a few things you can do to help reduce your risk of developing endometrial cancer. These include:
1. Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of developing endometrial cancer. A healthy weight means you have a lower chance of developing obesity, which is a major risk factor for the disease.
2. Exercising Regularly
Exercising regularly is another important way to reduce your risk of developing endometrial cancer. Exercise helps keep your body healthy and reduces your risk of obesity.
3. Eating a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet is one of the best things you can do for your health. A healthy diet includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. It is also important to limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and red meat.
4. Avoiding Smoking
Smoking is a major risk factor for developing endometrial cancer. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your health.
5. Limiting Your Alcohol Intake
Drinking alcohol increases your risk of developing endometrial cancer. If you drink alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation. For women, that means no more than one drink per day.
Conclusion
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see a doctor so that the cause can be determined. Early detection is key to the successful treatment of endometrial cancer.
