What Are the Early Symptoms of Liver Cancer?
Jun 01, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jin Zhongkui
Introduction
Early symptoms of liver cancer primarily include right upper quadrant abdominal fullness, right upper quadrant abdominal pain, jaundice, abdominal pain, abdominal distension, constipation, and diarrhea. If 60% of patients with liver cancer could be detected early, diagnosed early, and treated early, the majority of these early-stage patients could be cured through radical resection surgery. Patients with intermediate- to advanced-stage liver cancer require chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted drug therapy, and other treatments.
Recently, I’ve been feeling unwell—sometimes experiencing generalized fatigue, headache, and dizziness. After visiting the hospital, I was diagnosed with liver cancer. What are the early symptoms of liver cancer?
What Are the Early Symptoms of Liver Cancer?
Early symptoms of liver cancer primarily include a sensation of fullness or discomfort in the upper right abdomen, pain in the upper right abdomen, jaundice, abdominal pain, abdominal distension, constipation, and diarrhea. If approximately 60% of liver cancer patients can be detected, accurately diagnosed, and treated early, most early-stage patients may achieve complete cure through radical surgical resection. For patients with intermediate- or advanced-stage disease, treatment typically involves chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and/or targeted drug therapy. Concurrently, disease progression must be controlled and recurrence prevented. With active, appropriate treatment, the five-year survival rate for patients with intermediate-stage liver cancer is relatively high.
Preventive measures for liver cancer include: First, patients with chronic hepatitis should receive standardized antiviral therapy. Second, avoid consuming moldy foods to minimize exposure to aflatoxins. Third, avoid drinking water contaminated with microcystin toxins. Fourth, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, maintain overall health, and prevent diabetes. If diabetes is already present, ensure optimal chronic disease management and undergo regular health screenings.
Once liver cancer develops, it may compress and destroy surrounding organs. Depending on which organs are affected, different symptoms may arise—including tumor rupture and hemorrhage. For example, when the stomach is compressed, complications such as gastric perforation, loss of appetite, and early satiety may occur. We hope this information is helpful to you!
