Ovarian Cancer Side Effects

Ovarian cancer involves the uncontrolled growth of cells in the ovaries. This type of cancer can involve the formation of tumors in the area and also spread to other parts of the body. Treatments for this disease have a number of  side effects  as we will see below.

Side effects of surgical interventions

Next we will see some of the effects and consequences that an ovarian cancer patient may face during the treatment corresponding to this difficult disease.

Effects of anesthesia

The anesthetic treatment used in all types of surgery can generate some effects, not very serious, but uncomfortable that can harm the patient. Respiratory and heart problems, blood clots, small bleeds and infections are some of the mishaps caused by anesthesia.

Effects on the body

During surgery some areas may be directly affected, such as the bladder, blood vessels, intestine or lymph nodes. In some cases, it is necessary to remove the lymph nodes in the patient’s pelvis.

In this case, there is a risk that the lymphatic system suffers a breakdown causing lymphedema. This disease causes the legs to fill with fluid, causing swelling.

Extreme consequences 

There is a probability that at the time of surgery to remove the tumor it will be necessary to remove some fragments of affected abdominal organs such as the intestine, for example. Also, it may be necessary to remove pieces of the liver, gallbladder, or spleen.

Similarly, when the operation is performed, the patient may completely lose the possibility of conceiving.  In case the patient wants to have children, she must undergo fertility preservation treatment before surgery.

Effects of chemotherapy

The side effects of chemotherapy vary depending on the drug that is being used.

Common effects

• Total or partial loss of hair.
• Excessive tiredness or fatigue.
• Bleeding and infections caused by a decrease in red blood cells.
• It can also cause anemia.
• Nausea, vomiting, and watery stools (diarrhea).
• Canker sores and loss or alteration of the sense of taste.
• Cramps or tingling caused by damage to the peripheral nerves.
• Mild pain in the ears and muscles.
• Redness, darkening, and inflammation of the skin.

Less frequent effects

• Blurry vision.
• Hypotension
• Abdominal pain.
• Allergic reactions.
• Headache or migraine.

Effects of radiation therapy

The effects of radiation therapy and chemotherapy are the same. However, patients who are exposed to radiation therapy are also at risk for digestive problems.

Remedies that can reduce side effects

Faced with a degenerative disease such as cancer, nature gives us tools to make quite useful medicines. Some foods and herbs are great for reducing the effects of ovarian tumor treatments. Here are some of these foods and medicinal plants.

1. Mint tea

The antioxidant properties of peppermint tea make the immune system stronger, allowing the body to prevent and fight diseases such as ovarian cancer. Also, it is excellent for calming an upset stomach, one of the most common symptoms.

Ingredients

• 7 or 10 mint leaves (1 g).
• 1 cup of water (250 ml).
• Honey or lemon to taste

Preparation

• Bring the 250 ml of water to a boil.
• Add the mint leaves when it reaches its boiling point.
• Turn off the heat and let it rest until they make an infusion.
• Add honey or lemon, if desired.

You can ingest it at any time of the day. Preferably drink a cup in the morning.

2. Shiitake mushrooms

These mushrooms contain beta-glucan, a chemical that may inhibit the growth of some types of cancer cells. Shiitake mushrooms are common in Japan, where they are used to treat ovarian cancer and other ailments.

Ingredients

• 12 fresh shiitake mushrooms.
• 1 bunch of chives (200 g).
• Fat sea salt.
• 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil (15 g).
• 1 small romaine lettuce.
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice (30 ml).
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (30 ml).
• 1/2 tablespoon of mirin (7.5 g).

 Preparation

• Make a star cut on the shiitake mushroom hat.
• Slice a piece of the foot.
• Slice the chives and add sea salt.
• Grill the mixture until the mushrooms are golden brown.

• Mix all the ingredients well to make the sauce.
• Wash the lettuce and dry it well.
• Cut the leaves into chunks.
• Put everything in a bowl.