Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or inside an ovary. They are common, especially in individuals who have not yet gone through menopause. Many ovarian cysts are small, noncancerous, and often resolve without causing any symptoms. However, some cysts can grow larger or lead to complications, which may result in various symptoms, including nausea.
How Ovarian Cysts Can Cause Nausea
Ovarian cysts can cause nausea through several mechanisms, especially when large or complicated. One way is through direct pressure on nearby organs. A growing cyst can press against the stomach or intestines, leading to discomfort and feelings of nausea. Irritation of the peritoneum, the abdominal cavity’s lining, by a large cyst can also cause abdominal pain and nausea.
Hormonal imbalances can also play a role in cyst-related nausea. Some types of ovarian cysts, such as functional cysts, can produce hormones like estrogen or progesterone. An altered hormonal balance can disrupt the digestive system, potentially leading to symptoms like nausea and vomiting.
Acute complications of ovarian cysts are also significant causes of nausea. Ovarian torsion, which is the twisting of an ovary due to a large cyst, can cut off the blood supply to the ovary. This painful event often results in severe abdominal pain, intense nausea, and vomiting. A ruptured cyst occurs when the fluid-filled sac breaks open. The release of fluid and blood into the abdominal cavity can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to sudden, sharp pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Additional Symptoms to Recognize
Beyond nausea, ovarian cysts can present with a range of other symptoms, especially if they are large or problematic. Pelvic pain is a common indicator, which can manifest as a dull ache or a sharp pain in the lower abdomen, sometimes radiating to the lower back or thighs. This pain may be constant or intermittent and can occur on one side of the body.
Bloating or abdominal distension is a frequent symptom, often described as fullness or heaviness. Cysts can also affect bowel habits, leading to difficulty emptying bowels or constipation due to pressure on the intestines. Similarly, a cyst pressing on the bladder can cause a frequent need to urinate or difficulty emptying the bladder.
Changes in menstrual patterns are also possible, including irregular periods, heavier or lighter bleeding than normal, or spotting between periods. Pain during sexual intercourse, known as dyspareunia, can occur if the cyst causes discomfort during movement or pressure. Some individuals may also experience a feeling of fullness quickly after eating.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seek medical attention if ovarian cyst symptoms are concerning or worsen. Prompt evaluation is important for sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain. This pain, especially with nausea and vomiting, could signal ovarian torsion or a ruptured cyst, which are medical emergencies.
Other urgent signs include nausea and vomiting with a fever, which may indicate infection. Dizziness, weakness, fainting, rapid breathing, or cold, clammy skin are serious indicators requiring immediate medical help, as these could be signs of shock. Any new, unusual, or persistent pelvic symptoms should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider for diagnosis and guidance.