How to Recognize Early Symptoms of Liver Cancer

Early symptoms of liver cancer

The early symptoms of liver cancer can appear as subtle and unspecific. In most cases, these signs get dismissed or ignored. It would appear as a sign of any less serious health condition.

These may include: 

Sudden weight loss

If you are losing weight without any diet change or physical activity, then it could be cancer. Many studies claim that this cancer usually affects the metabolism, and it may lead to sudden and unexpected weight loss. 

Constant fatigue and weakness

If you are constantly feeling tired, physically drained, or weak even after taking proper rest. Then, it can signal health concerns, just like cancer in the liver. The fatigue shows the liver’s ability to detoxify the blood and nutrients effectively for the benefit of the body.

Loss of appetite

If you suddenly experience a loss of appetite or lose interest in eating foods once craved, then it could be a sign of cancer. Additionally, experiencing fullness after eating some foods could be a red flag, which indirectly shows the liver enlargement started to press against the stomach. All of these signs show in the early stages of this cancer. 

Experiencing abdominal pain and discomfort

The liver is found near the upper right part of the abdomen. Experiencing a constant pain or dull ache in this area can be a warning sign, especially if it worsens over time. If you are experiencing constant pain, then do not ignore it!

Jaundice

The most common sign of this cancer is experiencing yellowing of the skin and nails; the condition is also known as jaundice. It happens when the liver cannot function effectively and can't process bilirubin.

It leads to showing signs of yellowness in the skin or eyes. It also causes dark urine or pale-colored stools (poops) in some people.

Abdomen swelling (Ascites)

In the advanced stages of this cancer, a health condition like ascites might develop. It is a buildup of fluid produced in the abdomen, known as ascites. It can cause bloating, discomfort, and tightness in the belly area.

Itchy skin

If you are experiencing chronic itchiness without any visible rash, it can be due to any type of liver dysfunction. It often happens when the bile salts start to build up under the skin. It can cause intense itching, even before more obvious signs start to appear in people.

Nausea and vomiting

If you have recently started to experience nausea or vomiting, an upset stomach without any visible cause can often be linked to liver dysfunction. These are common signs but often dismissed by many people. If you experience these symptoms for more than 2 weeks, then consult a doctor.

Chronic fever

If you are experiencing a constant fever, it often indicates a sign of inflammation or infection developed in the liver. While it may not always indicate the sign of cancer, it shouldn't be ignored, especially its appearance with other symptoms and health complications.

Easy bruising or bleeding

The liver produces some proteins that are useful for helping blood clotting. If you find yourself bruising easily or bleeding more than usual, then do not ignore the signs. For example, nose bleeding or gum bleeding. It could be due to any abnormalities in the liver functioning.

Who is at higher risk for this cancer?

Early diagnosis is especially important for individuals in higher-risk groups. The high-risk group for this cancer may include:

• Chronic hepatitis B or C
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
• Metabolic dysfunction steatotic liver disease (MASLD)
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Family history of cancer
• Smoking habits
• Use of tobacco products