6 Warnings Signs for Liver Cancer
Liver cancer is a condition that occurs when tumors and cancerous cells develop inside of the liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of liver cancer. Liver cancer is a lot easier to treat if it is detected early, before it spreads to other parts of the body. However, the key to getting the right treatment is to recognize the symptoms.
You should see your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms to be referred to a liver cancer treatment center:
1. White or chalky stools
It is important to pay attention to the way that your stool looks. The color of your stool can vary, and it is largely dependent on your diet. However, if your stool is white and chalky, then this is a sign that you do not have enough bile reaching your stool, which could indicate a problem with the liver.
2. Nausea and vomiting
It is common for you to occasionally feel nauseous and vomit. However, if you notice chronic nausea and vomiting, then it is a good idea to see your doctor. A liver tumor can create hormones that cause you to feel nauseous and vomit.
3. Jaundice
Jaundice is a medical term used to describe the yellowing of the eyes or skin. This problem occurs when the body has too much bilirubin. This is a substance that is found inside of your red blood cells. Your liver is supposed to filter out the bilirubin. However, if you have liver cancer, then your liver will not be able to filter out the bilirubin. That is why it will start to build up in your body.
4. Losing weight without trying
The liver plays an important role in your digestion. That is why you may find yourself losing weight without even trying. This weight loss can occur as the result of appetite loss. Liver cancer can also make it harder for your body to process the nutrients that it needs.
5. General fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom. Most people experience fatigue because they are not getting enough rest. However, chronic fatigue is something that should never be ignored because it isn’t normal. It is a subtle sign of liver cancer. There are several reasons that liver cancer can cause fatigue. It is common for people who have liver cancer to suffer from anemia. This is a condition that is caused by a lack of red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen. Liver cancer can also cause you to experience pain. This pain can make it harder for you to get the proper amount of sleep.
6. Upper abdominal pain and swelling
You may notice that your upper abdomen starts to swell. Your liver tends to grow as the cancerous cells grow. Abdominal swelling can also be caused by the buildup of fluid. You may also experience abdominal pain.