Bloating as a symptom of ovarian cancer

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Hi

i have read in numerous places that bloating is a common symptom of Ovarian cancer but have had difficulty finding out whether such bloating is constant or comes and goes. The word ‘persistent’ is often used to describe bloating when a symptom of ovarian cancer but does that mean constant (i.e. never goes away) or just repeatedly occurs?

i have been suffering bloating for 3 weeks or more and cannot attribute it to weight gain (ie really being belly fat) nor has it been accompanied by noticeable gastrointestinal symptoms like wind/gas. Mine is not too bad first thing but does seem to increase through the day.   It has been very warm and I know hot weather can cause a greater likelihood of bloating but am concerned as 58 yro woman with a prior cancer diagnosis (bladder TCC pTa G1).  i should add, I do suffer with health anxiety since my cancer diagnosis.

thank you

Blue

  • Hi Bluebear21.

    Thanks for getting in touch through our online community. I’m Helen and I’m one of the Macmillan cancer information nurse specialists on our support line. I see you’ve joined some of our cancer forums; I hope you are finding it a supportive environment.

    It’s understandable that you are having health anxiety after your previous diagnosis of cancer, and that you are concerned whether the bloating is a symptom of ovarian cancer.

    Bloating can be a symptom of ovarian cancer, and we use the term persistent when the symptom doesn’t go away.

    Please know that we would never make a diagnosis on one symptom on it’s own, and there are other things that can cause bloating such, including ovarian cysts.

    As you’ve been experiencing this for more than 3 weeks, we would encourage you to see your GP, who can send you for tests if they are concerned.

    I hope you found this information helpful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in contact with us if you need further information or support.  

    Best wishes

    Helen K

    The Macmillan Support Line offers practical, clinical, financial and emotional support. You can call us free from landlines and from most mobile phone networks on 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week, 8am – 8pm or contact us by email or webchat

    Ref: HK / GH