Liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma, is a severe and potentially life-threatening ailment that can be hard to spot early on. The liver helps filter toxins from the body and supports digestion. These functions can get compromised when diagnosed with cancer. Timely detection of liver cancer is crucial for management. This post explores the signs and symptoms of the condition. Those who experience these indicators should consult a healthcare provider without delay.

Abdominal pain and discomfort
Persistent abdominal pain and discomfort are common symptoms of liver cancer. Patients often describe a dull ache or a feeling of fullness in the upper right side of the abdomen. This discomfort can result from the tumor pressing against surrounding organs or causing inflammation in the liver.

Jaundice
Jaundice, characterized by a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, is a visible sign of liver cancer. Liver tumors can obstruct the bile ducts, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment made during the breakdown of red blood cells, and when it accumulates, it causes the yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Fatigue and weakness
Liver cancer can cause fatigue and weakness that do not go away even with rest. This exhaustion is often due to the liver’s impaired ability to produce proteins essential for energy and other bodily functions.

Loss of appetite and nausea
A decrease in appetite and nausea can be early signs of liver cancer. As the cancerous cells interfere with the liver’s functioning, individuals may experience a reduced desire to eat. This can lead to an unintentional drop in fitness over time.

Swelling and fluid retention
Liver cancer can cause the abdomen to swell and lead to fluid retention in the legs and ankles. This swelling, known as ascites, occurs because the liver’s ability to produce albumin, a protein that helps regulate fluid balance, is compromised. As a result, fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity and lower extremities.

Changes in stool and urine color
Changes in the color of stool and urine can indicate liver cancer. One’s stool may become pale or chalky in color, while the urine may appear darker than usual. These changes occur due to disruptions in the liver’s bile production, which plays a role in digestion and eliminating waste products.

Enlarged liver
An enlarged liver, known as hepatomegaly, can indicate liver cancer. As the tumor grows, it can cause the organ to increase in size, leading to abdominal discomfort and a feeling of fullness. A healthcare professional can detect an enlarged liver during a physical examination.

Itchy skin
Pruritus, or itchy skin, can be a symptom. The accumulation of bile salts in the bloodstream due to liver dysfunction can lead to itching. One may experience itching all over their body, which can be particularly bothersome.

Blood clotting issues
Liver cancer can disrupt the production of blood-clotting proteins, leading to bleeding problems. Patients may notice easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts or injuries.

Liver cancer can present a range of signs and symptoms one should know about. While these symptoms can also be associated with various other health conditions, their persistence and severity should not be ignored. Early detection and diagnosis of liver cancer are essential for effective treatment and improved outcomes.