What are the symptoms of early-stage liver cancer?
Sep 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
In general, as a malignant tumor occurring in the liver, liver cancer often presents early symptoms related to the liver and digestive system, mainly including dull pain in the liver area, gastrointestinal discomfort, general fatigue, skin abnormalities, weight loss, and so on. Early symptoms of liver cancer are easily confused with other diseases. It is important to pay attention to any unusual bodily changes in daily life, especially for individuals with a history of hepatitis, cirrhosis, or long-term alcohol consumption.
Generally, as a malignant tumor occurring in the liver, liver cancer often presents symptoms related to the liver and digestive system in its early stages. These mainly include dull pain in the liver area, gastrointestinal discomfort, general fatigue, skin abnormalities, and unexplained weight loss. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Dull pain in the liver area: In the early stage of liver cancer, discomfort in the liver region is common, typically manifesting as persistent dull or distending pain. The pain is usually located in the right upper abdomen or middle upper abdomen and may worsen after physical exertion or emotional fluctuations. Initially, the pain is mild and can easily be mistaken for common liver disease or gastrointestinal discomfort.
2. Gastrointestinal discomfort: Some patients experience reduced appetite, nausea, and bloating in the early stage, with more pronounced symptoms such as bloating and belching after consuming greasy foods. These symptoms resemble those of common gastrointestinal disorders and are often overlooked.
3. General fatigue: Patients frequently experience unexplained overall fatigue that persists even after adequate rest, feeling tired after simple daily activities. This occurs because impaired liver function disrupts normal nutrient metabolism, leading to insufficient energy supply and resulting in chronic fatigue.
4. Skin abnormalities: A minority of patients may develop early signs such as yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes (jaundice), spider angiomas on the skin surface, or skin itching. These manifestations are associated with decreased liver function in metabolizing bilirubin and hormones.
5. Weight loss: Without intentional dieting or increased physical activity, patients may experience unexplained weight loss—sometimes up to 5–10 kg within a short period—accompanied by body wasting and reduced muscle mass.
Early symptoms of liver cancer are easily confused with other diseases. It is important to pay attention to unusual bodily changes, especially for individuals with a history of hepatitis, cirrhosis, or long-term alcohol consumption, who should undergo regular liver examinations. It is advisable to avoid alcohol, reduce intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods, maintain a regular lifestyle, and protect liver health.
