Signs and Symptoms of Liver Cancer
Liver cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when the liver cells start growing uncontrollably. It can be difficult to detect in the early stages, as the liver does not have many nerves and can function normally even when damaged. However, there are some signs and symptoms of liver cancer that you should be aware of. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common signs and symptoms of liver cancer.
Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition that causes yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. It occurs when the liver is not functioning properly and cannot remove bilirubin, a yellow substance produced when the body breaks down old red blood cells. Jaundice is a common symptom of liver cancer and may be one of the first signs of the disease.
Abdominal Pain or Swelling
Abdominal pain or swelling is another common symptom of liver cancer. As the tumor grows, it can put pressure on the liver and surrounding organs, causing pain or discomfort. In some cases, the abdomen may become swollen or distended due to a buildup of fluid in the area.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of many types of cancer, including liver cancer. As the tumor grows, it can affect the way the body uses nutrients, leading to weight loss even when you are not trying to lose weight.
Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite is another common symptom of liver cancer. As the tumor grows, it can affect the way the body processes food, leading to a loss of appetite or feeling full after eating only a small amount.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of many types of cancer, including liver cancer. They may occur due to the tumor's effects on the digestive system or due to chemotherapy or other cancer treatments.
Fatigue and Weakness
Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms of liver cancer. They may occur due to the tumor's effects on the body or due to the body's response to cancer.
Itching
Itching is a common symptom of liver cancer. It occurs when the liver is not functioning properly and cannot remove toxins from the body, leading to a buildup of chemicals in the blood that can cause itching.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early detection of liver cancer can improve the chances of successful treatment. Your doctor may perform tests such as a blood test, imaging tests, or a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of liver cancer.
In conclusion, liver cancer can be difficult to detect in the early stages, but there are some signs and symptoms to look out for, including jaundice, abdominal pain or swelling, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, fatigue and weakness, and itching. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.
Comments
Post a Comment