End of Life Symptoms From Liver Cancer

End of Life Symptoms From Liver Cancer
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According to MayoClinic.com, most liver cancers begin in other areas, such as the colon, lung, or breast and then spread to the liver. Medline Plus states that hepatitis, cirrhosis, or scarring of liver, and low birth weight are factors that put an individual at risk of getting liver cancer. Men are also more likely to get this disease than woman. MayoClinic.com notes that the common symptoms of advanced liver cancer include loss of weight and appetite, pain and fatigue, and yellow discoloration.

Weight Loss and Decreased Appetite

According to MayoClinic.com, weight loss is a symptom of advanced liver cancer. The individual does not try to lose weight, and the decrease in weight is seen due to the progression of the disease. Another symptom of advanced liver cancer is loss of appetite. The person does not feel hungry and his food intake decreases. This further contributes to weight loss.

Pain and Fatigue

According to MayoClinic.com, pain is another symptom of the final stages of liver cancer. The individual experiences pain in the right side of the upper abdomen. This is accompanied with a feeling of fullness and bloating in the abdomen. Pain may also be experienced in the back or the shoulder. Additionally, the individual may feel a general weakness and fatigue. This may also be accompanied by fever.

Yellow Discoloration

According to MayoClinic.com, yellow discoloration is a symptom of advanced liver cancer. A person with liver cancer may develop jaundice-like symptoms. These include yellowing of the eyes and skin. There may also be a swelling in the abdomen, which may occur due to an enlarged liver. The person may also experience symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Jul 16, 2010

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