Bloating/abdomen swelling 1 year..ovary enlarged..

[yogini45]

Hi...I'm 45 and have been dealing with sudden digestion problems, abdomen bloating and constipation for about 8 months..I've NEVER had stomach issues and though I'm thin..even if I gain weight it is not in my abdomen..until now..I didn't have insurance, so I just have tried EVERYTHING possible with my diet..my abdomen still is protruding more that normal (about 3-4")..I just got insurance, and at my exam, my physician felt that my right ovary was enlarged and it was tender.  She recommended an ultrasound..I can't get in for a couple of weeks.  I'm VERY concerned..I KNOW my body and I've now read all about ovarian cancer and I'm wondering if large benign cysts can still create issues with digestion and cause sustained bloating or if it is just cancer that has the bloating abdomen symtom?  I'm newly divorced...alone and scared.  Any advice on how to get in sooner for testing..?

[dian07]

Benign growths can cause the same symptoms.  It's unfortunate your gyn can't get you in quicker than 2 weeks!  I don't know if the ER would do a transvaginal ultrasound if you showed up there in pain.  I can understand your concern, but you should know around 95% of all cysts are benign, and again, they can cause the same symptoms.
Since the ovary is enlarged and painful, why don't you request to be referred to a gyn/oncologist.......if there is going to be surgery, that's the person who has the expertise you need, anyway!  That's what you should do......call your gyn and request a referral to a gyn/oncologist!  Not because this is scancer, but because this is their arena of expertise.
You need to be your own advocate with your health issues.  Don't be afraid to push a little.
Please do keep us posted.
Peace.
dian

[lactac1224]

I agree that if there is an issue you should see a gyn oncologist.  If they tell you you need surgery for sure have the gyn onc do the surgery.  BUT I would wait until you have your US to see what is going on.

If you are in pain a trip to the ER may be the thing but without insurance it would probably be expensive.  Some hospitals have programs for people without insurance that gives a great discount.  You could call your hospital and ask if they have programs for uninsured patients.

If you have to wait try not to worry too much.  Cysts and tumors that are not cancer can cause pain.  Also, less than 1% of cysts are cancer.  I really hope all turns out well.  please let us know what happens!

Laura  :)