Although the existence of ovarian cyst symptoms alone cannot and will not confirm an ovarian cyst, there are certain symptoms that can help point to this diagnosis. Although individually, each symptom may not be a cause for concern, two or more of them in combination should merit prompt medical attention.
An unusual menstrual cycle can point to the possibility of having cysts, particularly if up until this time the menstrual period has always been predictable. Therefore, anything out of the ordinary during a cycle can be an indicator: symptoms of ovarian cysts might include excessive bleeding, irregular menstruation, or spotting in between periods. In addition, there might also be unexplained weight gain.
Ovarian cyst symptoms can show up as a sort of dull ache in the lower back and pelvic area. Sometimes this pain will flair up either right before or after a period, but it can also be brought on during intercourse or even heavy exercise. When an ovarian cyst bursts or twists, it can cause a number of problems depending on the size of the cyst. There might be pain in the abdomen and the pelvic area, tissue irritation, and perhaps more seriously, blood will not be able to travel freely to the ovaries.
The symptoms of pregnancy are much the same as the symptoms of ovarian cysts. You must look for symptoms outside the common pregnancy symptoms to see the difference between the two. Infertility is one of the common symptoms present with ovarian cysts.
Ovarian cysts are often accompanied by abdominal pain, fullness or pressure. The pain may occur and disappear suddenly. Abdominal bloating or swelling may also be present. Development of an ovarian cyst may also cause uncomfortable pressure or pain during bowel movements, passing urine problems, and existence of pressure on the rectum or bladder.
Most ovarian cysts almost always go away given the passage of time. However, some ovarian cyst symptoms are severe and require immediate medical attention. This includes sudden and severe pelvic or abdominal pain, pain with fever and vomiting, shortness of breath, and faintness or sudden weakness.
As a whole, the nature of ovarian cyst symptoms makes it difficult for a general practice doctor to pick up on them. Cysts can certainly be detected in the absence of any symptoms, but most ovarian cyst cases are diagnosed not as a result of the presence of any ovarian cyst symptoms but rather during an individual’s annual Pap smear.
