What are the symptoms of gallbladder cancer

Typical symptoms of gallbladder cancer include gastrointestinal discomfort, right upper abdominal pain, abdominal mass, jaundice, and skin itching. These symptoms may indicate gallbladder dysfunction and require prompt medical attention.

1. Gastrointestinal symptoms

Gastrointestinal discomfort is common in patients with gallbladder cancer. Symptoms such as indigestion, anorexia, and hiccups may be due to poor fat digestion caused by gallbladder dysfunction. Imagine that after eating a greasy meal, there is always a heavy feeling in the stomach. This is the gallbladder sending out a distress signal.

2. Right upper abdominal pain

The dull or paroxysmal pain in the right upper abdomen is often unbearable and sometimes even radiates to the right shoulder. It feels like there is a stone pressing on your liver, making you fidget. Such pain indicates that there may be a problem with the gallbladder, especially if it lasts for a long time.

3. Lump in the right upper abdomen

If you notice a lump in the upper right abdomen, it could be an enlarged gallbladder. About half of people with gallbladder cancer experience this symptom. Imagine suddenly having a hard mass in your abdomen. This change should not be ignored.

4. Jaundice and itchy skin

Jaundice is a common symptom of gallbladder cancer in the late stage. The skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow because bile cannot be discharged smoothly. Skin itching is especially aggravated at night and may keep you awake all night. This is because the components of bile enter the blood and stimulate nerve endings.

5. Loss of appetite and weight loss

Patients with gallbladder cancer often have a loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss. It's like the body is consuming energy but not enough fuel to replenish it. This change may be your body's way of telling you that you need to pay attention to your health.

6. Other symptoms

Fever, fatigue, nausea, etc. are also symptoms that may be associated with gallbladder cancer. These seemingly ordinary symptoms may sometimes hide deeper problems.

In order to better prevent and detect gallbladder cancer early, regular physical examinations are particularly important. If the above symptoms occur, especially if they persist or gradually worsen, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the quality of life and prolong survival. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, paying attention to diet and exercising regularly can also help reduce the risk of gallbladder cancer. Please remember that your body is your own, and any abnormality is worthy of attention.