The liver is one of the most essential organs in the human body and is often described as the body’s main filter or processing unit. It purifies blood, eliminates harmful toxins, supports digestion, and produces key compounds required for energy. The liver also plays a vital role in regulating metabolism. According to Surgical Cancer Oncologist Dr. Praveen Kammar, the most surprising fact about the liver is that it does not show noticeable symptoms during early damage, making early detection extremely difficult and increasing the chances of late-stage diagnosis.
1. Symptoms Often Appear Late
Many people detect liver cancer or other major liver-related problems only in the final stages when treatment becomes complicated. Doctors highlight that symptoms of liver and digestive cancers are often unclear or resemble common digestive issues. Signs seen in liver cancer may appear identical to gas, acidity, mild infections, or other everyday stomach issues. Because these symptoms do not seem serious, many individuals ignore them or delay medical evaluation, which leads to late diagnosis and reduced treatment success.
2. The Liver Can Function Even When Severely Damaged
The liver is known for its strength and resilience. Experts mention that even if the liver suffers 80 to 90 percent damage, it may still not show prominent or alarming symptoms. Therefore, people usually become aware of the disease only through tests or once the condition becomes severe. Individuals with a family history of liver disease, fatty liver, diabetes, hepatitis, or similar conditions should undergo routine checkups even without symptoms, as early detection is the most effective preventive approach.
3. Persistent Pain in the Upper Right Abdomen
The liver is located in the upper right side of the abdomen. If someone experiences frequent pain, heaviness, or pressure in that area, it may indicate a developing liver problem. However, such discomfort may also result from acidity, gas, or gallbladder-related issues. Guessing or assuming serious disease based only on pain may lead to incorrect conclusions. If the discomfort persists longer than two weeks and does not improve with common medicines or remedies, consulting a doctor becomes necessary.
4. Noticeable Decline in Appetite and Digestion Issues
Loss of appetite is another common early sign when liver disease or cancer begins to progress. A person may feel disinterested in food and may also feel uneasy or full quickly. Digestion-related symptoms such as nausea and vomiting may become frequent. Since digestion depends heavily on liver function, these symptoms may indicate that the liver is struggling to operate normally. Continuous appetite changes or ongoing nausea should not be ignored, especially if accompanied by fatigue or weight loss.
5. Yellowing of Skin and Eyes (Jaundice)
One of the most noticeable and serious signs of liver issues is jaundice, where the skin and the whites of the eyes turn yellow. This happens when the liver fails to process bilirubin, causing it to accumulate in the body. The presence of jaundice usually indicates that the liver condition has become severe and requires immediate medical intervention. Ignoring such visible symptoms may lead to life-threatening complications, making timely diagnosis extremely important.
6. Ignoring Symptoms Can Be Dangerous
People should never overlook ongoing symptoms such as persistent vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, sudden unexplained weight loss, severe weakness, or jaundice lasting more than two weeks. Self-diagnosing using online information can be misleading and potentially dangerous. Doctors strongly recommend that individuals with fatty liver, hepatitis, alcohol dependence, diabetes, or obesity undergo regular liver examinations. Early and timely screening remains the most reliable way to prevent serious liver disease and ensure effective treatment outcomes.
Disclaimer: This content is for general awareness and should not replace professional medical guidance or treatment. Always consult a certified doctor for an accurate diagnosis and medical decisions.