By Admin 
How To Keep Liver Healthy: Liver is one of the most important organs of our body. It performs many important functions like purifying the blood, making essential proteins, storing energy in the body and removing toxins. Apart from this, liver also produces bile, which helps in digestion. But when liver cells start growing abnormally, this condition later takes the form of liver cancer, which can prove to be very serious for health.
There can be many reasons behind liver cancer. Long-term alcohol consumption, hepatitis B and C infection, fatty liver problem, obesity or having cancer in the family, all increase its risk. Over time, liver cancer starts affecting the detox process of the body, due to which toxic elements start accumulating in the blood, its effect can be seen in the form of fatigue, unnecessary weight loss and digestive problems.
How many types of liver cancer are there?
There are mainly two types of liver cancer. The first is hepatocellular carcinoma, which is the most common type and begins directly in the liver cells. The second is cholangiocarcinoma, which develops in the bile vessels. Liver cancer is considered dangerous because its initial symptoms are often mild or people ignore them. By the time the disease is detected, it has progressed significantly. Due to reduced liver function, other organs of the body are also affected and gradually the body starts becoming weak.
What are the symptoms?
The initial symptoms of liver cancer appear gradually and are sometimes confused with common diseases. Initial symptoms include persistent fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, or pain or heaviness in the right side of the abdomen. Some people may also complain of yellowing of eyes and skin i.e. jaundice, frequent nausea or vomiting.
As the disease progresses, there may be swelling in the stomach and legs, body strength may further decrease and in severe cases, conditions like vomiting of blood or bleeding may also occur. Since these symptoms may resemble other diseases, it is very important to get checked by a doctor in time. Tests like CT scan, MRI and liver biopsy help in correct diagnosis. If the disease is detected in the early stages, better treatment results can be achieved and serious complications can be avoided.
What do experts say?
Dr. Ashish Sachan, a gastroenterologist at a reputed private clinic located in Dilshad Garden, says, “The symptoms of liver cancer emerge slowly and initially people ignore them considering them as general weakness or stomach problems. According to him, constant fatigue, loss of appetite, loss of weight without any reason and feeling of pain or heaviness in the right side of the stomach are such signs, which should not be taken lightly.”
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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