- Enlarged liver. Hepatomegaly, which is a mass under the ribs, on the right side.
- Enlarged spleen felt as a mass under the ribs, on the left side.
- Abdominal swelling. “Ascites” is a bloating of the abdomen due to a liquid buildup or when a mass forms inside of the abdomen. Swelling may occur if the bloating on the right side of the body occurs -- this is possibly due to the liver cancer growing larger.
- Jaundice. This condition occurs when the liver does not function properly and causes yellowing of the eyes and skin.
These signs are similar to other benign liver infections or diseases. The main difference is that with liver cancer, the symptoms evolve and worsen over time as the disease progresses. When in doubt, see a doctor.
Other Ailments Associated with Liver Cancer
As a result of liver cancer, certain other ailments may arise, especially in the early stages of the cancer. These diseases are known as paraneoplastic symptoms for liver cancer. Individually they may indicate other illnesses. But if they are found in combination, they could indicate liver cancer. These illnesses are:
- Hypercalcemia – an increase in blood calcium levels
- Hypoglycemia – a decrease in blood sugar levels
- Erythrocytosis – an increase in the red blood cell count
- Hypercholesterolemia – an increase in cholesterol levels
- Gynecomastia – enlargement of the breasts
- Shrinking testicles in men