What discomforts do patients with cervical cancer experience?

Patients with cervical cancer may experience irregular vaginal bleeding, contact bleeding, abnormal vaginal discharge, lower abdominal or pelvic pain, abnormal urination and defecation, and other discomforts. Cervical cancer is a common malignant tumor in the female reproductive system. It is mainly caused by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus. There may be no obvious symptoms in the early stage, but symptoms gradually appear as the disease progresses.

1. Irregular vaginal bleeding

Vaginal bleeding during non-menstrual periods is a typical symptom of cervical cancer and may appear as spotting or heavy bleeding. Postmenopausal women need to be more vigilant if they experience vaginal bleeding. Bleeding may be related to tumor invasion of blood vessels or cervical tissue necrosis. In the early stage, it may only show bleeding after sexual intercourse, and in the later stage, spontaneous and continuous bleeding may occur. Patients need to undergo cervical cytology and human papillomavirus testing in a timely manner.

2. Contact bleeding

Vaginal bleeding after sex, gynecological examination, or vaginal douching is called contact bleeding. The surface of cervical cancer lesions is fragile, and slight friction can cause bleeding. As the tumor progresses, contact bleeding may gradually worsen. Patients who experience this symptom should avoid strenuous exercise and seek medical advice promptly for colposcopy.

3. Abnormal vaginal discharge

Patients with cervical cancer often experience increased vaginal discharge, which may be watery, bloody, or purulent, with a foul odor. Abnormal secretions are related to tumor necrosis, infection, or cervical gland invasion. In the later stages, a large amount of rice-watery discharge may appear. Patients need to keep their vulva clean and avoid using irritating lotions. They can choose medications such as metronidazole vaginal effervescent tablets to control infection.

4. Lower abdominal or pelvic pain

When tumors invade surrounding tissues or nerves, they can cause dull, dull or radiating pain in the lower abdomen. The pain may radiate to the lumbosacral area or inner thigh. In the late stage, persistent severe pain may occur, which is related to tumor compression or bone metastasis. Patients can use ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, celecoxib capsules and other analgesics as directed by their doctor, and if necessary, undergo radiation therapy to relieve pain.

5. Abnormal urination and defecation

Tumor invasion of the bladder or rectum may cause symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, hematuria, constipation, and blood in the stool. Vesicovaginal fistula or rectovaginal fistula may occur in advanced stages. Patients who experience changes in urination and defecation require urinary system ultrasound and colonoscopy. You can use tamsulosin hydrochloride extended-release capsules to improve urinary symptoms, or lactulose oral solution to relieve constipation as directed by your doctor.

Cervical cancer patients should maintain a balanced diet, consume an appropriate amount of high-quality protein such as fish, eggs, etc., and eat more fresh vegetables and fruits to supplement vitamins. Avoid spicy food, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Carry out moderate exercise according to your physical condition, such as walking, yoga, etc. Regularly review tumor markers and imaging examinations, and strictly follow the doctor's instructions to complete radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Maintain a good attitude and actively cooperate with treatment. Family members should provide adequate psychological support. If any symptoms worsen, you should seek medical attention promptly.