It often develops silently, especially in people with long-standing fatty liver disease.
Understanding early symptoms and risk factors can help prevent serious complications.
Why Is the Liver So Important
The liver is a vital organ responsible for:
Purifying blood and removing toxins
Producing essential proteins
Storing energy (glycogen)
Producing bile for digestion
When liver cells start growing abnormally, it can lead to liver cancer, which severely affects overall health.
How Does Fatty Liver Increase cancer Risk?
Fatty liver disease, especially when untreated, can progress in stages:
Fatty liver → inflammation → liver fibrosis → cirrhosis → liver cancer
Risk factors that accelerate this progression include:
Long-term alcohol consumption
Hepatitis B or C infection
Obesity and diabetes
Unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle
Family history of cancer
Types of Liver Cancer
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
Most common type
Starts directly in liver cells
Cholangiocarcinoma
Develops in the bile ducts
Liver cancer is dangerous because symptoms often appear late, delaying diagnosis.
Early Symptoms of Liver Cancer
Symptoms may seem mild and are often ignored:
Persistent fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite
Unexplained weight loss
Pain or heaviness on the right side of the abdomen
Nausea or vomiting
Yellowing of eyes and skin (jaundice)
Advanced Warning Signs
As the disease progresses, symptoms worsen:
Swelling in the abdomen and legs
Severe weakness
Digestive problems
Vomiting blood or internal bleeding in serious cases
What Do Experts Say
Gastroenterologist Dr. ashish Sachan explains:
Liver cancer symptoms develop gradually.
Early signs are often mistaken for general weakness or stomach issues.
Persistent fatigue, appetite loss, weight loss, and abdominal discomfort should never be ignored.
Why Early Detection Matters
Diagnostic tests include:
CT scan
MRI
Liver biopsy
Early diagnosis improves treatment success and reduces complications.
Regular check-ups are crucial for people with fatty liver or other risk factors.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the content. Any reliance you place on the information is strictly at your own risk. The views, opinions, or claims expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization mentioned. We disclaim any liability for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of this article.
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel