Recognizing silent liver cancer symptoms to regain your health

Title: Recognizing silent liver cancer symptoms to regain your health

Introduction: Liver cancer is a 'silent killer.' Early signs include fatigue and jaundice. Screenings and healthy habits reduce risks.

Author: Shu Qi, Special Contributor, Department of Oncology, Hunan Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine)

Reviewer: Fu Jianfeng, Deputy Director, Oncology Department, Hunan Province Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital

The liver, known as the 'chemical factory of the human body,' has an astonishing capacity for endurance. It lacks pain receptors, and early stages of disease often pass quietly. For this reason, liver cancer is referred to as the 'silent killer.' By the time obvious symptoms appear, the disease is usually in its advanced stages.

Fu Jianfeng, the deputy director of the Oncology Department at Hunan Province Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital (Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine), reminds us that liver cancer is not inevitable or uncontrollable. By understanding the liver's 'distress signals' and mastering scientific prevention and treatment methods, we can build a strong defense line for life.

What 'warning signals' should we be wary of in relation to the liver?

1. Unexplained fatigue and weight loss that do not improve even with rest.

2. A dull ache, a feeling of heaviness, or stabbing pain in the upper right abdomen or liver area, with relatively localized pain.

3. Decreased appetite, nausea, and abdominal bloating, especially after consuming fatty foods, with symptoms worsening.

4. Sudden yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, accompanied by itchy skin, dark urine resembling strong tea, and pale stools resembling clay - all typical signs of jaundice.

A hard lump has appeared in the abdomen for unknown reasons, and there may be pain when pressed. Once these symptoms occur, it is important not to take them lightly and to seek a medical examination promptly.

Regular screenings are key.

1. For high-risk groups (such as individuals infected with hepatitis B or C, patients with cirrhosis, long-term alcohol users, and those with a family history of liver cancer), it is recommended to undergo liver cancer screening every six months.

Liver ultrasound examination can clearly observe the shape and size of the liver and promptly detect space-occupying lesions within the liver.

How is liver cancer treated?

Early-stage liver cancer can be cured through surgical resection and local ablation treatments (such as radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation), resulting in a high five-year survival rate.

In cases of intermediate to advanced liver cancer, a comprehensive treatment approach is required, including interventional therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Although it is difficult to achieve a cure, these methods can effectively prolong the patient's survival and improve their quality of life.

3. Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment: Based on the patient's condition (such as liver Qi stagnation, damp-heat accumulation, spleen deficiency with dampness, Qi stagnation and blood stasis, etc.), corresponding Chinese herbal formulas are prescribed to regulate the liver, strengthen the spleen, clear heat and detoxify, invigorate blood and eliminate stasis, and soften and disperse masses, thereby improving the patient's constitution and reducing the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Traditional Chinese medical practices such as external application of herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and acupoint plaster can alleviate symptoms like pain and abdominal distension, and help regulate the body's Qi and blood as well as the functions of internal organs.

How can liver cancer be prevented?

1. Vaccination against hepatitis B is the most effective means of preventing hepatitis B virus infection and is the first line of defense against liver cancer.

Individuals infected with hepatitis B or C should promptly visit a reputable hospital, adhere to medical advice for antiviral treatment, and undergo regular check-ups to manage the progression of the disease.

3. Develop healthy habits; quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid long-term heavy drinking. Maintain a balanced diet by consuming plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, and refrain from eating moldy or spoiled food. Establish a regular sleep schedule, avoid staying up late, engage in regular physical exercise, control your weight, and prevent fatty liver disease.

Maintain a positive mindset, undergo regular check-ups, and promptly identify and address potential liver issues.

Experts remind.

Associate Chief Physician Fu Jianfeng from the Oncology Department reminds us that while liver cancer is frightening, we can effectively reduce the risk of its occurrence by staying vigilant, conducting regular screenings, and developing healthy lifestyle habits. Let us focus on liver health and ensure that the 'silent killer' does not take control of our lives.

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(Editing 92)