Symptoms That May Indicate Liver Cancer: Common and Rare Signs to Watch For
Liver cancer can present a variety of symptoms, many of which are often mistaken for signs of other health issues. Identifying these symptoms early can be challenging, as liver cancer may not show obvious signs in its early stages. Below, we explore the most common and rare symptoms of liver cancer.
1. Common Symptoms of Liver Cancer
In its early stages, liver cancer often has no noticeable symptoms, which can lead to delayed diagnosis. As the disease progresses, certain signs become more apparent. Here are the most common symptoms associated with liver cancer:
Abdominal Lump or Mass
Patients may feel a lump or hard mass just below the rib cage on the right side of the abdomen. This mass is usually painless unless it presses on nearby structures. Sometimes, liver cancer can cause an enlargement near the spine, leading to severe back pain.
Pain in the Right Side of the Abdomen
As the tumor grows, it can exert pressure on the liver and surrounding tissues, causing discomfort or pain in the right upper part of the abdomen below the rib cage.
Right Shoulder Pain
Pain in the right shoulder may seem unrelated to liver issues, but it can be a sign of liver cancer. This occurs due to nerve irritation caused by the spread of cancerous cells from the liver to other parts of the body. The brain misinterprets the signal, making it feel like the pain originates from the shoulder.
Jaundice
Jaundice causes the skin and the whites of the eyes to turn yellow due to the accumulation of bile acids in the body. Other signs of jaundice include pale or whitish stool and dark urine, even in the absence of dehydration.
Severe Itching
When bile acids build up in the skin, it can lead to intense itching. While itching is often dismissed as a minor issue, it can be a significant symptom in the case of liver cancer.
Abdominal Bloating and Shortness of Breath
Cancer-related fluid accumulation in the abdomen (a condition called ascites) can cause bloating. Patients may notice their clothes feel tighter, even without weight gain. If the swelling presses against the upper abdomen and lungs, it can lead to shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
Loss of Appetite and Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain
Loss of appetite is a common sign of liver dysfunction. Patients may feel full after eating only a small amount of food. Additionally, unexplained weight loss could be linked to liver cancer or other serious conditions. On the other hand, sudden weight gain can result from fluid accumulation in the abdomen.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting can be caused by many illnesses, including liver cancer. Persistent nausea and an increased urge to vomit, especially when other symptoms are present, warrant medical attention.
Fever and Persistent High Temperature
A prolonged low-grade fever lasting 2-3 weeks without an identifiable cause can be a subtle sign of liver cancer.
Fatigue and Extreme Tiredness
Unlike regular fatigue that can be resolved with rest, cancer-related fatigue is chronic and does not improve with sleep. If your activity levels have declined without any obvious reason, it may be a sign of liver cancer or another serious illness.
2. Rare Symptoms of Liver Cancer
In rare cases, liver cancer can trigger the liver to release certain hormones, leading to unusual symptoms, including:
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
The liver may overproduce insulin-like substances, causing blood sugar levels to drop, which can result in fatigue, confusion, or fainting.
Swelling or Enlargement of the Breasts (Gynecomastia)
Hormonal imbalances caused by liver cancer can lead to breast enlargement in men, which is an uncommon but notable symptom.
Increased Red Blood Cell Count (Polycythemia)
An increase in red blood cell production may cause symptoms such as flushed skin, dizziness, or headaches.
Testicular Atrophy
Testicular shrinkage is a rare symptom that occurs due to hormonal changes brought on by liver cancer.
Conclusion
Liver cancer symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for signs of other illnesses. While some symptoms, like jaundice or abdominal pain, are more common, others, such as shoulder pain or testicular atrophy, may seem unrelated. Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment, so it’s important to seek medical advice if you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period. If you notice persistent changes in your body’s normal functioning, consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.
