Learn About the Liver Cancer Diagnosis Process
Unlike many cancers, liver cancer may not be discovered as a result of distinctive symptoms. This is because liver cancer does not typically originate in the liver itself, but often spreads there from other areas of the body that have developed cancer. Since the symptoms are sometimes hard to detect, it is imperative that those who are most at risk for this type of cancer are proactive in the screening process.
Instructions
1. Schedule an appointment with your doctor if you are in a high risk group and experience liver cancer symptoms such as chronic stomach pain.
2. Ask your doctor about dietary restrictions before your diagnosis is performed. For example, some procedures require that you not eat or drink water the night before. You may be asked to refrain from taking specific medications.
3. Let your physician know if you are allergic to any substances that could be used in the diagnosis process, are pregnant, or have had other surgeries or procedures.
4. Get a clear explanation of the diagnostic tests. It is the duty of your doctor to explain your condition and diagnostic tests to you in clear and concise terms. These tests may include CT scans, ultrasound, MRI, angiography (an X-ray that looks at blood vessels) or a blood test used to check for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).
5. Be proactive about your health, especially if you are at a high risk for liver cancer. If you have high risk conditions such as cirrhosis of the liver or hepatitis B or C, learn about the symptoms of liver cancer.
6. Follow up by making positive life changes. If you haven't already quit smoking and quit or limited drinking, now is the time.
7. Prepare yourself for the possibility of a cancer diagnosis. If, in fact, you have liver cancer, you may want to have a loved one by your side in the doctor's office.
Tags: liver cancer, high risk, your doctor, Cancer Diagnosis Process, diagnostic tests