Symptoms

People at high risk of developing liver cancer must be aware of the symptoms. This will increase their chances of being diagnosed at an early stage.

The following list describes common symptoms of liver cancer. Please note that having one or some of these symptoms does not mean you definitely have HCC or CCA. Also, you may have HCC or CCA but have other symptoms that are not listed here. You should always see your doctor for personalised advice if you have any concerns.

• • Losing weight without trying – significant weight is defined as losing more than 10% of your body weight.
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) – this happens when the liver is not functioning properly. Your urine may be darker than normal, and your stools may be paler.
  • Loss of appetite or feeling full after eating small amounts (bloating), nausea or vomiting
  • Swollen tummy (abdomen) – caused by enlarged liver, usually felt as a mass under the ribs on the right hand-side of the abdomen.
  • Pain in your abdomen or your right shoulder
  • Itching – sometimes associated with jaundice.
  • Feeling sick – sometimes associated with jaundice.
  • Tiredness or flu-like symptoms – including a fever (body temperature above 36.7C)

For further information on the signs and symptoms of CCA, please also see DiCE’s CCA infographic.

See your doctor if you have any of these symptoms, especially if you are at high risk.

A lot of these symptoms also occur with liver diseases and cirrhosis. If you have been diagnosed with a liver disease or cirrhosis, tell your doctor if you have any new or worsening symptoms.