Ovarian Cyst--Terrified

[SandyB765]

Hi--I am a new contributor to this board. Thank you to everyone who contributes as your posts have been very helpful. I'm 44, with a 4 year old son, and just diagnosed with a 5cm x 8 cm ovarian cyst. I had an intestinal flu shared with my son in May, that continued for me, but ended for him (thank goodness.) I had a colonoscopy last month to rule out colon cancer, etc. Concurrently consulted my ob/gyn, just in case gyne issues were involved. Was feeling much better and went in for an ultrasound just in case, when the cyst was discovered.
I'm going back for a follow-up ultrasound this coming week, and the dr. may recommend the CA-125 test. My discomfort has increased during the past two-three weeks, along with what I think could be anxiety related symptoms. Terrified of all aspects, possible issues with inaccurate CA-125 tests, the possibility of surgery, the possibility of cancer. I've had several other non-related surgeries in the past, as I get older I get more anxious about the possibilities. However, since the cyst was discovered, I know it's there and think I want it removed.
Has anyone experienced weird anxiety type symptoms while waiting to see doctors, test results, etc.? I'm currently experiencing tingling in extremities. I'm humbled by all of your experiences and wisdom. Thanks in advance.

[SandyB765]

Thanks much for your response. Your answer is very helpful, and much appreciated. Thanks again.

[ireneo]

A cyst that size should be removed whether it's cancer or not (and about 95% of cysts are NOT cancer). The sheer size of the cyst could cause it to flip and then you'd have a medical emergency on your hands. And if the thing decided to burst, again, major pain and an emergency. They do the CA125 routinely with cysts but the number can be elevated for many reasons so it's not the most accurate tool.

I had a cyst diagnosed almost 2 years ago. Except for some bloating and potty problems I didn't even know it was there. The US said it was about 7 cm. I had to go through some testing for my heart issues before they would do surgery. Like you, I was aware of the cyst and it seemed to be more uncomfortable, like carrying a tennis ball in my pocket all the time. When they finally removed it 3 months later, it had grown to 10cm. Guess it wasn't all in my head.

Tingling in the legs might be anxiety or it could be the cyst pressing on a nerve. Cysts can do a variety of things depending on the location.

It's normal to be anxious about surgery. None of us look forward to that. But once they remove the cyst, you'll feel amazingly better and wish they had done it sooner. Keep us posted.