Liver cancer originates in the cells of the liver, an organ near the upper abdomen. It is one of the fastest-growing cancers diagnosed in our country. The condition is broadly classified into two categories: primary and secondary. The former begins in the liver, while the latter spreads to the liver from another body part. Keep reading to learn more about liver cancer’s common signs, causes, diagnostic process, and management options.

Symptoms
Most people generally do not have noticeable symptoms in the early stages of liver cancer. However, some experience the following discomforts:

• Pain in the upper abdominal region
• Loss of appetite
• Swelling in the abdomen
• Yellow eyes and skin
• Fatigue
• Vomiting and nausea
• Dark-colored urine
• Chalky white stools

One must remember that these signs could also indicate other health conditions. Therefore, one should consult a healthcare expert for a thorough diagnosis.

Causes and risk factors
Typically, one develops liver cancer when changes (mutations) occur in the liver cells’ DNA. These mutations cause the cells to grow out of control, forming a tumor (a mass of cancerous cells).

Although chronic hepatitis infections are sometimes the reason behind the development of cancer, in others, the cause remains unknown. Nevertheless, healthcare professionals have associated some risk factors for the condition, which have been mentioned below:

• Cirrhosis
  Liver cirrhosis, a progressive and irreversible health condition, causes scar tissue formation in the organ, significantly increasing the risk of liver cancer.
• Inherited liver diseases
  Some liver-related diseases can be inherited or, in other words, passed on from one generation to the next. Some liver diseases that can increase cancer risk include Wilson’s disease and Hemochromatosis.
• Diabetes
  Patients with diabetes are more likely to develop liver cancer than others.
• Fatty liver disease
  The accumulation of fat cells in the liver can pave the way for liver cancer.
• Exposure to aflatoxins
  Exposure to mold-produced poisons (aflatoxins) growing on poorly stored crops can increase the risk.

Diagnostic tests
Those who experience the symptoms of liver cancer should visit a healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance. When patients manifest the condition’s signs, doctors order particular tests and procedures for a diagnosis, such as an ultrasound, MRI, CT scan, blood tests, and examination of liver tissue (liver biopsy).

Once liver cancer is confirmed, the doctor may try to determine its severity or stage. Depending on the stage, they may suggest treatment alternatives. Since liver cancer is a progressive disease, an early diagnosis can help patients manage it better.

Treatment and management
As mentioned, the treatment of liver cancer usually depends on its severity. However, the patient’s health, personal preference, and age can affect the decision. Below are a few common treatment alternatives for liver cancer:

• Surgery
  Today, healthcare professionals can suggest two types of surgeries: removal of tumors (partial hepatectomy) and liver transplant. The viability of these options depends on the patient’s liver functionality, overall health, and tumor location.
• Localized treatments
  Localized treatments like radiofrequency ablation (heating of cancer cells), cryoablation (freezing of cancer cells), and targeted chemotherapy help eliminate the cancer cells in the liver.
• Radiation therapy
  Here, high-powered energy is focused on the cancer cells to destroy them and shrink the tumor. The treatment is recommended only when other options prove ineffective.
• Immunotherapy
  Patients with an advanced stage of liver cancer may be suggested immunotherapy. This treatment stimulates one’s immune system to attack and eliminate cancer cells.

Individuals undergoing treatment should visit the doctor regularly to monitor the condition’s progress. Doctors can evaluate the patient and modify the treatment plan as required. One should also inform the expert if they experience side effects. In such cases, the healthcare provider may revise the treatment’s dosage or suggest another solution.

Foods to eat
Besides treatment, doctors may suggest food changes to manage the condition better and meet the body’s nutritional needs. However, one must remember that such remedies cannot cure liver cancer but only support the body during recovery.

Healthcare experts usually suggest eating fiber-rich foods that improve liver function. That said, patients should not miss out on other nutrients and eat balanced meals for optimal health. Some healthy foods for liver cancer include:

• Whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice
• Lean protein sources like skinless chicken, tofu, beans, cod, halibut, and haddock
• Low-fat dairy products like fat-free cheese, yogurt, and milk

The doctor may suggest a meal plan after evaluating the patient’s health, cancer stage, and other factors. They may also recommend lifestyle changes like sleeping on time and exercising. Patients should follow the expert’s advice for the best outcome in the long run.