low hematocrit

[thesixb's]

Can anyone tell me if a low hematocrit is an indication of ovarian cancer?  I am having my right ovary removed soon and was told today that my hematocrit is low.  I am obviously a little nervous about the outcome of my surgery and this seems as though it may be one more piece of bad news.  Thanks for your help.

[thesixb's]

As far as I know there is nothing else going on that would explain why my levels are low.  I am in the middle of my cycle and I have no other symptoms other than what seems to be typical with ovca.  I look as though I am about 2-3 months pregnant and I have a cyst with abnormal blood flow to it.  I am very tired, especially when I wake up.  I'm sleeping at least 8 hours a night and still have a hard time getting out of bed.  4 kids can do that to you but I am used to being run ragged all day :).  This fatigue is newer to me than any I have experienced.  I started taking a vitamin supplement today in the hopes of bringing my hematocrit percentage so that my surgery won't be postponed.  I am still waiting on my surgery date.  I should find out tomorrow.  The sooner the better.  Can anyone tell me why ovca causes abdominal distention. I am sure the size of the cyst has something to do with it but what if the cyst isn't extremely large?  Why would someone look pregnant?

[gah_70]

Interesting question, and one about which I don't think I have heard any statistics.  I will admit, I was anemic prior to surgery, but then again, I had a 44 cm tumor that was connected to everything in my abdomen.  I imagine tumors that have their own blood supply would have the tendency to make one anemic.  However, anemia, in and of itself, wouldn't be an indication of cancer.  Is there anything else going on that might explain it?  Any IBS symptoms, or heavy menstration?  When is your surgery?

[thesixb's]

Thanks for your advice Gail.  I didn't even think about the fact that I need to get my hematocrit numbers up in order to have my surgery.  What I'm concerned about with the numbers is that I read on the internet that some types of anemia are directly related to cancer, ovarian cancer being one of the leaders here.  I don't know how accurate this is and that is why I posted my questions.  Is it common to have low hematocrit numbers if you have ovarian cancer?

[gah_70]

Low hematocrit means you are anemic.  It is not an indication of ovarian cancer.  Your doctor may suggest ways to try to get your numbers up, because it is doubtful he/she would perform surgery on someone who is already anemic unless it is an emergency.  Your doctor might suggest taking iron supplements, upping your intake of protein, or even a blood transfusion if it is low enough.  Now is the time to prepare yourself so your recovery will be easier.  Best wishes to you for a successful outcome.  

Gail