3. Abdominal Pain and Swelling: The Hidden Consequences of Liver Cancer
Abdominal pain and swelling are common early signs of liver cancer. The pain typically occurs in the upper right area of the abdomen, where the liver is located. This discomfort can be a result of the tumor pressing against surrounding tissues, causing inflammation and irritation.
The swelling, also known as ascites, occurs when fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity due to liver dysfunction. As the liver struggles to produce proteins necessary for maintaining fluid balance, excess fluid can build up, leading to abdominal swelling and discomfort. Additionally, liver cancer can cause portal hypertension, which is an increase in pressure within the blood vessels leading to the liver. This can further contribute to fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity.
If you experience persistent abdominal pain or swelling, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Your healthcare provider may recommend imaging tests such as ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs to help identify the cause of your symptoms. These tests can provide detailed images of the liver and surrounding organs, potentially revealing the presence of a tumor or other abnormalities.
In addition to imaging tests, your healthcare provider may also recommend blood tests to assess your liver function and screen for specific tumor markers associated with liver cancer. These tests can help determine if your symptoms are related to liver cancer or another condition that may be causing similar symptoms.
Early detection and treatment are critical for improving the prognosis of liver cancer. By seeking medical attention for persistent abdominal pain and swelling, you can potentially catch liver cancer in its early stages, increasing the likelihood of successful treatment and long-term survival. (3)
