An NHS surgeon has issued signs and symptoms to look out for that may indicate you have cancer. In one TikTok video shared via the University of Birmingham official account, @unibirminghamthe medical expert emphasizes the importance of early detection.
Sudha Sundar, professor of gynecological cancer and NHS consultant gynecological cancer surgeon, highlighted the increased risk of ovarian cancer when women experience menopause and highlighted “red flags” for early detection of ovarian cancer. Sundar states in the clip: “Over 300,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer every year worldwide. We know that 90% of women will survive ovarian cancer if it is diagnosed at an early stage, in stage 1.”
She continues, emphasizing quick action: “So it’s really important that women act on their symptoms. If you’re an older woman and you have bloating, so your stomach feels really full,” then this is a key sign.
She adds further detail, saying: “If you feel quite full when you eat. If you have a lot of pressure symptoms on your bladder so you feel like you want to cry more often or open your bowels more often or if you have stomach pain or discomfort in your stomach like is new to you, which is persistent, over a month, then go to your GP.”
Professor Sundar further says that it is very important that you do not wait and instead see your doctor ASAP. She says your “doctor will be able to do some very simple tests like a blood test or an ultrasound and this can help you find out if there’s anything suspicious going on with you.”
To summarize her point, you should visit your GP if:
- You experience bloating
- You feel quite full when you eat
- You feel pressure on the bladder
- You need to pee more
- You need to poop more
- You have stomach pain or discomfort that is new to you and lasts for more than a month
What are the other symptoms of ovarian cancer?
Other symptoms of ovarian cancer according to NHS may include:
- indigestion
- constipation or diarrhea
- back pain
- I feel tired all the time
- lose weight without trying
- vaginal bleeding after menopause
What will happen at my doctor’s appointment?
If there are signs of cancer, you may receive an urgent referral for more tests or to a specialist in hospital. The NHS notes that “this does not definitely mean you have cancer.” The examination may include:
- gently insert a smooth, tube-shaped tool (a speculum) into your vagina so they can see inside this area
- press on the abdomen and inside the vagina to look for lumps or sore or tender areas
NHS approved ways of getting help and support
Cancer Research UK
Information and support for anyone affected by cancer.
Marie Curie
Care and support for anyone affected by a terminal illness.
Ovacome
Information and support for anyone affected by ovarian cancer.
Target ovarian cancer
Information and support for anyone affected by ovarian cancer.
Eve appeal
Information and support for anyone affected by cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, vaginal cancer, vulval cancer and uterine cancer.
Maggie’s Centers
Practical, emotional and social support for anyone affected by cancer.
Macmillan Cancer Support
Information and support for anyone affected by cancer.
