Symptom 9. Fluid Retention: The Body’s Involuntary Hoarding
Fluid retention, especially in the ankles and legs, is a symptom that speaks volumes about the body’s internal balance. The liver produces albumin, a protein that helps retain water within the blood vessels. In hepatocellular carcinoma, the liver’s capacity to produce this protein diminishes, leading to fluid leakage into surrounding tissues.
Initially, it might manifest as a slight swelling, often dismissed as the result of a long day. However, as days progress, the swelling becomes more pronounced. Shoes feel tighter, and the skin over the swollen areas appears stretched. Yet, this isn’t merely about discomfort.
The implications of fluid retention run deep. It hints at a cardiovascular system under strain, trying to maintain balance in a changing environment. The kidneys, in response, might start conserving water, leading to reduced urine output. This isn’t an isolated symptom but part of a chain reaction triggered by the liver’s compromised state. (9)
