Early detection of liver cancer is crucial to successful treatment, but it can be a challenge because the symptoms are often vague and can be mistaken for other health issues.
It’s important to know the early warning signs of liver cancer to catch it as early as possible.
What is liver cancer?
Liver cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the liver. There are several different types of liver cancer, but the most common type is called hepatocellular carcinoma.
It typically starts as a small tumor that grows over time and can spread to other parts of the body.
What causes liver cancer?
There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing liver cancer. The most common risk factor is long-term liver damage, usually caused by chronic alcohol abuse or hepatitis B or C.
Other risk factors include obesity, diabetes, exposure to certain chemicals, and an inherited condition called hemochromatosis.
Early warning signs of liver cancer
One of the challenges of detecting liver cancer early is that the symptoms are often subtle and can be mistaken for other health issues. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor:.
1. Fatigue and weakness
Feeling tired all the time is a common symptom of liver cancer. The cancer cells can interfere with the liver’s ability to store and release glucose, which can lead to fatigue and weakness.
2. Loss of appetite and weight loss
If you notice a sudden loss of appetite and weight loss, it could be a sign of liver cancer. The cancer cells can cause a decrease in appetite and make it difficult to digest food properly.
3. Abdominal pain and swelling
Persistent pain and swelling in the abdomen can be a sign of liver cancer. The tumor can put pressure on the liver and cause discomfort.
4. Jaundice
Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eyes that can be a sign of liver disease. It occurs when the liver is unable to process bilirubin, a waste product that is normally excreted in stool.
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If you experience jaundice, it’s important to see your doctor right away.
5. Nausea and vomiting
If you experience persistent nausea and vomiting, it could be a sign of liver cancer. The cancer cells can interfere with the liver’s ability to detoxify the body, leading to these symptoms.
6. Itchy skin
If you notice your skin becoming very itchy, it could be a sign of liver cancer. The cancer cells can cause a buildup of bile acids in the blood, which can lead to itching.
7. Fever
A persistent fever can be a sign of liver cancer. The cancer cells can cause inflammation in the liver, which can lead to fever.
8. Enlarged liver
One of the most common signs of liver cancer is an enlarged liver. If you notice your abdomen feeling swollen or bloated, it could be a sign of an enlarged liver.
9. Elevated liver enzymes
If your doctor notices an increase in liver enzymes, it could be a sign of liver cancer. High levels of liver enzymes can indicate liver damage, which could be caused by cancer.
10. Reflux or heartburn
Reflux or heartburn is a common symptom of liver cancer. The tumor can cause acid to build up in the stomach, leading to these symptoms.
When to see a doctor
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor right away. Early detection of liver cancer is crucial to successful treatment.
Your doctor may order blood tests, imaging tests, or a biopsy to determine whether you have liver cancer.
Conclusion
Liver cancer is a serious condition that can be difficult to detect in its early stages. By knowing the early warning signs of liver cancer, you can catch it as early as possible. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor right away.
