8 silent signs of liver cancer

History of hepatitis C

Certain characteristics can put you at risk for liver cancer. People with a history of hepatitis C can develop related liver cancer 10 years after diagnosis. There are treatments that can cure hepatitis C and thus prevent liver cancer. You can have this “silent” liver disease and not even know it.

History of hepatitis B (or not vaccinated)

Although unrelated to hepatitis C, hepatitis B can also cause cancer. Children are now routinely vaccinated against hepatitis B at birth, but many people who have not been vaccinated may be at risk for liver cancer. Anyone with hepatitis should be monitored by a doctor. They should have an ultrasound at least once a year to screen for cancer if they have the virus. A blood test for alpha-fetoprotein can also indicate liver cancer, although this has not been proven to be an accurate test.

Are (or have been) drinking a lot of alcohol

Regular heavy drinking can damage liver cells, which are replaced by scar tissue. This can then lead to liver cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

Obesity

The new driver of liver cancer is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The rise in liver cancer linked to obesity and diabetes has been a major cause for many years. But just being overweight doesn’t mean you’re at increased risk of liver cancer, so many people who are obese still have liver cancer. But the more risk factors you have, the more worrying it is, so talk to your doctor and try some weight loss measures.

Abdominal pain

Most people with liver cancer have pain in the upper right part of the abdomen, especially when pressing on the liver area. Pain in this area is not necessarily liver cancer - it can also be caused by hepatitis, or gallbladder, or pancreatic problems.

Unexplained weight loss

Weight loss and loss of appetite are common symptoms of many different illnesses, including some cancers and viruses. Weight loss may not be cancer, but be sure to let your doctor know if your other symptoms could be related to liver cancer.

Feel full quickly

Extra fluid in your abdomen can make you feel full faster than usual. Cancer can also cause you to lose your appetite.

Yellow eyes or skin

Symptoms of jaundice can indicate liver cancer. If you have itching and yellow skin, it is not a good sign. Jaundice is also one of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer.