What does jaundice feel like with liver metastases?

Jaundice happens when bilirubin builds up in the body. You may see yellowing first in the whites of the eyes, followed by a change in skin colour. Blocked or slowed bile flow can make urine dark, stools pale and itching widespread. Liver metastases may also be accompanied by reduced appetite, unplanned weight loss, fullness after small meals or a feeling of pressure in the upper abdomen.

Symptoms differ between people and can be influenced by the original cancer and its treatment. New jaundice during cancer care should be reported promptly because bile blockage, medicine effects, infection and other problems can look similar.

Contact your oncology or medical team as soon as you notice yellowing, dark urine or pale stools. Tell them when it began, whether itching or pain is present, and list every medicine, supplement and treatment you use. Keep drinking as advised by your team and do not change cancer treatment or take over-the-counter remedies for itching without checking first. Assessment may include an examination, blood tests and scans.

Seek urgent care if jaundice comes with fever, shaking chills, severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, confusion, marked sleepiness, bleeding or difficulty breathing. If you cannot keep fluids down or become suddenly much weaker, contact your care team urgently.

Ask whether bile flow may be blocked, which tests are needed, whether a medicine could be contributing, and how itching or poor appetite can be relieved. Ask who to call outside clinic hours and which changes should trigger emergency care.