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WHAT IS AN OVARIAN CYST?
A cyst is a closed cavity or sac containing liquid or
semisolid material. A cyst developing in the ovary is an Ovarian cyst. Ovarian cysts are
rarely cancerous.
AFFECTS
Women of all ages.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Most produce no symptoms. Others, especially larger ones,
can produce any of the following:
- Swelling without pain in the lower abdomen.
- Painful sexual intercourse.
- Stinging or burning on urination (if the cyst is pressing
on the bladder).
- Difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
- Brownish vaginal discharge.
- Irregular menstruation
The following may occur if the cyst twists, bleeds or
breaks (this is an emergency):
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Fever.
- Vomiting.
CAUSES
Hormone disturbance. Ovarian cysts sometimes develop
during pregnancy.
RISK INCREASES WITH
- Pregnancy.
- Use of hormones.
HOW TO PREVENT
Cannot be prevented at present.
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
- Typical symptoms.
- History and physical exam--including a complete pelvic
examination by a doctor.
- Pelvic ultrasonography.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Rupture of the cyst or twisting of the cyst's stalk. This
requires emergency surgery.
- Urinary obstruction.
PROBABLE OUTCOME
Ovarian cysts are known to subside spontaneously. They
can be aspirated through ultrasound guidance or through laparoscope. They are also curable
with surgery, but may recur.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
Surgery to drain the cyst (sometimes) or to remove the ovary.
MEDICATION
Medicine is usually not necessary for this disorder. For
minor discomfort, one may use OTC medicines such as Paracetamol.
ACTIVITY
No restrictions. If surgery is necessary, resume
activities gradually.
DIET
No special diet.
CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR, IF
- You have typical symptoms of an ovarian cyst.
- Any of the following develops after diagnosis:
- You lose weight for no apparent reason.
- You generally feel sick.
- You have pain in the lower abdomen.
- You experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, nausea, and
fever. This may indicate rupture of a cyst.
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