Late-stage liver cancer symptoms
Disease description:
My father was recently diagnosed with late-stage liver cancer, and the whole family is very worried. We would like to know what symptoms are generally associated with late-stage liver cancer and how we should take care of him.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Qi Zhirong
In the late stages of liver cancer, symptoms can be diverse, and patients may experience significant abdominal pain and bloating. Some patients may also feel an abdominal mass. Persistent pain in the upper right abdomen or liver area is one of the most common symptoms of liver cancer, and the pain may be dull or sharp.
Due to impaired liver function, patients may develop jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, and darkening of urine color. Patients often feel extremely fatigued, and this fatigue may be related to the disease itself or to treatment. Small blood vessels expanding on the skin resembling a spider web (spider angiomas) and reddening of the palms are signs of liver disease.
Systemic symptoms include weakness, weight loss, and fever. Weakness is associated with declining liver function and poor nutrient absorption, while weight loss is linked to tumor-related wasting and reduced appetite. Liver failure can affect blood clotting function, leading to easy bruising or bleeding. Hepatic encephalopathy may cause confusion, changes in behavior, or disturbances in sleep patterns.
If the above symptoms occur, medical attention should be sought immediately. Although these symptoms may also be caused by other health conditions, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving survival rates.
