What are the Early Symptoms and Risk Factors of Liver Cancer?

Liver is an important organ of the body and is important for various functions like metabolism of food and drugs, and filtration of blood. Uncontrolled growth of defective or damaged cells in liver can result in liver cancer which impacts its functioning. Liver cancer can be classified into two categories, basis the origin of cancer:

• Primary liver cancer: When the cancer starts from liver itself, it is called primary liver cancer.

• Secondary liver cancer: It is called secondary because in this case, cancer starts in any other part of the body, but spreads to liver.

What are the symptoms of liver cancer?

Liver cancer is a silent cancer and symptoms can’t be experienced at an early stage. But in case you observe any these symptoms it could be because of liver cancer:

• Pain and discomfort in abdomen

• Jaundice

• White chalky stools

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Weakness and fatigue

• Unintentional weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• An enlarged liver or spleen

• Swelling or fluid build-up in the abdomen

Who is at risk of liver cancer?

The main cause of liver cancer is not known. However, there are certain factors that put you at a greater risk of developing liver cancer:

• Age: More cases of liver cancer are reported in people over 50 years of age.

• Hepatitis: If you have had hepatitis B or C infection, this may damage your liver severely increasing the chances of liver cancer later.

• Consumption of alcohol: Daily consumption of alcohol increases your risk for liver cancer.

• Liver cirrhosis: It is a condition in which healthy liver cells are replaced by scar tissue. It  impacts the functioning of liver and increases the risk as well.

• Metabolic conditions: Diabetes and obesity are two risk factors that can lead to liver problems thus, increasing the risk of liver cancer.

• Liver diseases or disorders: Few liver diseases like hemochromatosis and Wilson's disease can increase the risk of liver cancer.

• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: In this condition, there is an accumulation of fat in the liver, which is associated with increased risk.

Liver cancer is a serious condition. In case, if you are at an increased risk it is very important to understand the early signs and consult with your doctor.