What are the symptoms of early-stage liver cancer?
Jun 25, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
Liver cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the liver and is associated with factors such as alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis, ingestion of moldy food, and genetic predisposition. In general, early symptoms of liver cancer may include fatigue, loss of appetite, right upper abdominal pain, jaundice, and abdominal mass. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician.
Liver cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the liver and is associated with factors such as alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis, ingestion of moldy food, and genetic predisposition. In general, early symptoms of liver cancer may include fatigue, loss of appetite, right upper abdominal pain, jaundice, and abdominal masses. It is recommended to visit a正规 medical institution, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Fatigue: Patients with early-stage liver cancer often experience unexplained fatigue and weakness, which persists even after adequate rest. This is primarily due to impaired liver function affecting the body's energy metabolism and absorption of nutrients, leading to persistent exhaustion.
2. Loss of appetite: Patients may suffer from poor appetite, reduced interest in food, and even nausea and vomiting. Additionally, due to decreased caloric intake and impaired liver metabolism, patients may experience unintentional weight loss.
3. Right upper abdominal pain: In the early stages of liver cancer, patients may feel dull or aching pain in the right upper abdomen, particularly noticeable after eating. This is usually caused by tumor growth pressing on surrounding tissues and organs, or stretching of the liver capsule.
4. Jaundice: Jaundice is a common symptom of liver cancer, characterized by yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. It mainly results from the liver’s inability to properly process bilirubin in the blood, leading to its accumulation in the body. Jaundice may also be accompanied by darkened urine and pale stools.
5. Abdominal mass: A firm, painless mass in the right upper abdomen may be detected either by the patient or during a physical examination. This typically occurs when a liver tumor grows large enough to enlarge the liver, forming a palpable mass in the abdomen.
If corresponding symptoms appear and a diagnosis of liver cancer is confirmed, patients should follow medical advice to undergo treatments such as hepatic resection, along with radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and other interventions to help control disease progression and support recovery. During treatment, maintaining a positive mindset and ensuring adequate nutritional intake are beneficial for improving the condition.
