Liver cancer is on the rise, and this insidious disease often progresses quietly and stealthily. Early detection is the “golden key” to successful treatment. So, pay attention to your body and don’t ignore subtle symptoms. If detected in the early stages (stage I or II), the five-year survival rate for liver cancer can be as high as 50-70%. However, when detected late, this rate drops to about 10% or lower. Be highly vigilant if you experience any of the following signs.
Prolonged Fatigue – An Often Overlooked Early Warning Sign
This is a classic symptom of liver cancer. If you feel constantly tired despite adequate rest and nutrition, take note. Patients with early-stage liver cancer often experience this symptom prominently. You may feel a lack of energy, constant lethargy, and easily get exhausted from light activities or feel sleepy all the time, even with sufficient rest.
Many confuse this with stress, lack of sleep, or overwork. But if this persists for more than two weeks and doesn’t improve with proper rest and nutrition, coupled with other abnormalities, seek medical attention immediately.
Pain in the Right Hypochondrium – A Sign of Liver Damage
As the liver is located in the right hypochondrium region, pain, discomfort, or a sense of heaviness in this area is a typical warning sign. The pain is usually not intense but rather persistent and recurring. Patients may experience mild abdominal distension, a feeling of something pressing down, especially after a large meal or lying on the right side.
These signs indicate potential liver issues, inflammation, or the presence of a growing tumor, causing the liver capsule to stretch. When such symptoms arise, don’t ignore them; instead, seek immediate medical attention.
Unexplained Weight Loss – A Classic Cancer Symptom
For cancer patients, one of the most noticeable symptoms is weight loss, and liver cancer is no exception. If you’re losing weight rapidly without dieting or increased physical activity, be extremely cautious. Patients may lose between 3-5 kg within a few weeks or months without any apparent explanation.
Additionally, they may experience loss of appetite, a feeling of fullness, early satiety, leading to overall body weakness and a pale complexion. This is because the liver is no longer effectively performing its function of metabolizing and eliminating toxins, causing the body to weaken from within. If you or your loved ones experience sudden and uncontrolled weight loss, consider getting a liver check-up as soon as possible.
Jaundice – A Sign of Potential Severe Liver Damage
Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, is a clear indication of severe liver function impairment. When the liver fails to process bilirubin, a yellow pigment in the blood, it accumulates, resulting in a noticeable yellow discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes.
In addition to jaundice, patients may also experience dark-colored urine (similar to tea color), pale stools, and itching all over the body. While this symptom typically appears in later stages, it can also be observed in some cases of rapidly progressing liver cancer.
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7 Warning Signs Your Liver Disease Has Progressed to an Advanced Stage
The following symptoms are a warning that your liver condition has progressed to an advanced stage, and you should seek medical attention promptly.
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If your body exhibits any of the following five signs, it could indicate that your liver is in a severe state of distress. It is advisable to seek medical attention at the earliest.
The Four Warning Signs That Your Liver Disease Has Progressed to an Advanced Stage: When You Should Seek Medical Attention.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
