Two itchy areas on the body may be signs of liv.er can.cer, often mistaken for allergies

Sometimes, itching is not caused by poor hygiene or common skin conditions. Instead, it can be the result of the “rampage” of liver cancer occurring silently inside the body.

The liver performs many vital functions such as detoxification, metabolism, and nutrient storage. However, because it lacks sensory nerves, liver damage is often difficult to detect early. One subtle but frequently overlooked warning sign is persistent itching in certain areas of the body.

Do not be complacent, as frequent itching in the two areas below often occurs when the liver is having problems and may even be an early warning sign of liver cancer:

1. Itchy skin

Generalized itching of the skin is the most common sign when the liver is affected. It often begins on the backs of the hands and feet, then spreads to the arms, legs, back, chest, and abdomen.

The cause is a decline in liver function, which reduces the body’s ability to filter and eliminate toxins. Excess bile that is not properly transported to the intestines enters the bloodstream, allowing bile salts to accumulate under the skin. These bile salts stimulate nerve endings, causing persistent itching without redness or rashes, unlike typical allergic reactions.

Liver-related itching often worsens in the evening, persists continuously, and does not improve with moisturizers or anti-allergy medications, leading many people to underestimate it. When itching becomes widespread, especially when accompanied by mild yellowing of the skin or eyes, this is a warning sign that liver function should be checked immediately.

2. Itchy eyes

In addition to itchy skin, itchy eyes are another easily overlooked but equally important symptom. The eyes are sensitive to environmental factors and may become dry or itchy due to prolonged work, lighting, or dust. However, if eye itching persists, accompanied by dryness and discomfort even after adequate rest, liver problems should be considered.

When the liver is damaged, blood flow and nutrient supply to the eyes decrease, leading to oxygen and nutrient deficiency. This can result in prolonged eye itching, sometimes accompanied by mild blurred vision, redness, or abnormal tearing. Persistent eye itching without an obvious cause may be a warning that the liver is under excessive pressure from detoxification.

In addition to eye itching, liver cancer often causes yellowing of the eyes or unusual deterioration in vision. Pay close attention!

Other symptoms of liver cancer to watch for

Besides itching in the areas mentioned above, liver cancer may also present with other symptoms, including:

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes

• Rapid, unexplained weight loss

• Nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal bloating

• Dark-colored urine

• Persistent pain in the right upper abdomen

• Fatigue and prolonged fever

To protect the liver and reduce the risk of disease, doctors emphasize maintaining a healthy lifestyle by limiting alcohol, tobacco, and processed foods, while increasing the intake of green vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to boost fiber and antioxidants. It is also important to maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly to prevent fatty liver disease, receive hepatitis B vaccination, and undergo regular health check-ups for early detection of liver problems.