Symptom 3: Feeling of Fullness
Most of us are familiar with the feeling of fullness after a hearty meal. However, imagine experiencing that sensation after just a few bites. It’s unsettling, to say the least. This unusual satiety, often not in line with the meal’s size, is a distinct symptom of fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma.
One might wonder, why does this happen? The liver, being a large organ, can exert pressure on the stomach when enlarged or inflamed. This physical pressure can reduce the stomach’s capacity, leading to early satiety. The sensation isn’t just physical. Reduced stomach size can lead to hormonal changes that signal the brain about fullness prematurely.
Beyond the physical sensation, this symptom can lead to a host of nutritional challenges. Reduced food intake, over time, can result in nutrient deficiencies. These deficiencies can manifest in a multitude of ways, from fatigue and weakness to more severe complications.
Another dimension to consider is the psychological impact. Continual early satiety can lead to a reduced interest in food, affecting one’s social life and emotional well-being. The feeling of fullness, especially when disproportionate to food intake, can be both a physical and psychological challenge, necessitating a deeper probe into its causes. (3)
