Early signs of Liver Cancer that are easy to ignore

An aggressive form of cancer, liver cancer can occur in anyone, and is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally. It occurs when cancer cells form in the tissues of the liver The most common type of primary liver cancer is HCC, but other types include bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma) and rarer cancers like fibrolamellar carcinoma.

Unfortunately, liver cancer symptoms are hard to detect initially, making it even more difficult to treat as it progresses. However, there are some signs one should watch out for...

Rapid weight loss without dietingOne of the early signs of liver cancer is losing weight without trying. If you suddenly start losing weight and are not dieting, then it could be a warning sign. This happens because the cancer affects the liver’s ability to process nutrients, and hence your energy is rapidly used up, leading to weight loss.Loss of appetiteSince liver is an important organ for digestion, any disruption in it will cause your appetite to drop. People in early stages of liver cancer often feel full after eating only a small amount. This early feeling of fullness, called early satiety, occurs because the liver cancer can disrupt digestion and metabolism, making it hard for the body to process food normally.Upper abdominal painPain or discomfort in the upper right side of the belly, where the liver is located, is another sign that can be easy to ignore.

This pain might be dull or sharp and sometimes spreads to the right shoulder or back. Of course, this pain can also be due to indigestion or muscle strain, but constant pain should not be ignored.Nausea and VomitingFeeling constantly sick, or vomiting frequently without another clear cause can also be a symptom of liver cancer. This happens because the liver’s reduced function affects the digestive system. If nausea or vomiting lasts for a long time, it’s important to get it checked by a doctor.Fatigue and WeaknessFeeling unusually tired or weak, even after resting, is a common condition, but can have a serious base. The body uses a lot of energy trying to fight the cancer, which can leave you feeling drained. This fatigue is different from normal tiredness and tends to persist.

Jaundice (Yellowing of Skin and Eyes)Jaundice is when the skin and the whites of the eyes turn yellow. It happens because the liver is no longer able to remove a substance called bilirubin from the blood.

Along with yellowing, you might notice itchy skin, dark urine, or pale stools. These symptoms indicate that the liver is seriously affected, though it might not always be cancer.Swelling and Fluid BuildupLiver cancer can cause fluid to build up in the abdomen, making it swell and feel heavy. This swelling, known as ascites, can be uncomfortable and is a sign that the liver is not working properly. Swelling in the legs may also occur.Feeling a "mass"Sometimes, you may feel a lump or fullness under the ribs on the right side (enlarged liver) or the left side (enlarged spleen). This can be a sign of liver cancer or related liver problems and should be checked by a healthcare provider.Other symptomsItchy skin even when not dryFever without infectionEnlarged veins visible on the bellyEasy bruising or bleedingWhy these signs are easy to ignoreMany of these symptoms are common and can be caused by less serious conditions like indigestion, stress, or infections. Because they are vague or mild at first, people often delay seeing a doctor. This delay can allow the cancer to progress to a more advanced stage, making treatment harder.