Stools That Look Like This May Be Warning You Of The Deadly Liver Cancer

The liver is a big organ with a meaty structure located on the right side of your belly. The main function of the liver is to filter the blood that comes through the digestive tract before distribution to the rest of the body. It also produces proteins needed for blood clotting and other functions.

Another important job of the liver is detoxifying chemicals and metabolizing drugs. By doing so, the organ secretes bile that often ends up in the intestines.

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

Medical experts are unsure about what exactly causes liver cancer. In most cases, however, scientists note they are linked to damage and scarring of the organ known as cirrhosis. Many types of cancer may develop in the liver cells. Like most cancer types, liver cancer symptoms are usually vague and may not manifest until the disease is in its advanced stage.

According to the Mayo Clinic, one warning sign of the development of liver cancer is when your stools assume a certain color. The stool’s color may vary and would oftentimes depend on the food you ate or supplements you took. For instance, if you are taking iron supplements, your stools may turn black.

Under normal circumstances, bile from the liver creates the typical brownish-yellowish color of the stool. This indicates a healthy bowel movement.

When the stool appears too pale, it can mean there is not enough bile that reaches the stool. Liver or bile duct problems can cause the stool to turn pale. These pale stools, which are either clayish or whitish and oftentimes accompanied by a change in pee colors, may indicate liver-related problems or issues with the biliary tree. Mayo Clinic reveals that a whitish and chalky color may indicate the early stages of liver cancer.

Factors that Increase the Risk of Liver Cancer

Some factors may increase the risk of a person developing liver cancer. These may include cirrhosis, diabetes, exposure to aflatoxins, and chronic infection. Inherited liver diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and excessive consumption of alcohol can also increase the risk of developing liver cancer.

If you are an alcohol drinker, make sure you consume them in moderation. Drinking heavily may lead to cirrhosis and increase your risk of liver cancer development. Seek an appointment with your doctor if you notice symptoms like a change in the color of your stools so a proper diagnosis may be made.