16 silent signs of liver cancer one shouldn’t ignore
Liver cancer is a result of the development of a cancerous tumor in the liver. The condition has been classified as a leading cause of cancer deaths nationwide, with hepatocellular carcinoma being the most common type of liver cancer. Although the symptoms do not show up initially, diagnosing the condition as early as possible can help with timely treatment. So, here are some silent signs of liver cancer one shouldn’t ignore:
Silent signs of liver cancer
Unexplained loss of appetite
Liver cancer may trigger the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, which can cause one to feel extremely full, even in the case of normal or lower food intake. Such a sensation of fullness can lead to loss of appetite, a possible sign of liver cancer.
Yellowing of the eyes and skin
Yellowing of the eyes and skin indicates the liver’s inability to digest a substance known as bilirubin and may be a sign of liver cancer or liver disease.
Pale-colored stools
The liver releases a substance called bile into the small intestine; this substance is responsible for the typical brownish color of stools. However, in case of liver cancer or damage, the liver is unable to produce or release bile, causing stools to turn light or white in color. Pale-colored stools are a common sign of liver cancer, although it may also be indicative of some other liver disease.
Hard lump under the rib
A hard lump forming under the right rib or on the upper part of the right abdomen may indicate the growth of the malignant liver tumor or swelling of the organ.
Chronic pain
Pain among patients with liver cancer typically occurs in the upper right abdomen, the right shoulder, or the back. This pain is usually dull and chronic and may be accompanied by abdominal swelling.