Why does liver cancer cause abdominal swelling?

A common cause is ascites, a collection of fluid between the abdominal organs and the abdominal wall. Liver disease or a tumour can alter pressure in blood vessels and reduce the liver's ability to manage fluid and proteins, encouraging fluid to move into the abdomen.

The liver may also become enlarged, or nearby organs may feel pressure as a tumour grows. Abdominal Swelling is a common presentation of Liver Cancer, but bloating and fluid accumulation have many causes. Examination and imaging help distinguish them.

Tell your liver team whether the swelling is gradual or sudden, whether your abdomen feels tight, and whether your weight, appetite or breathing has changed. Your clinician may examine your abdomen and review medicines, kidney function and liver tests. Do not start or stop diuretics, restrict fluids or sharply change salt intake without personalised advice.

Seek urgent medical help if swelling appears quickly or comes with severe pain, fever, repeated vomiting, confusion, fainting, black stools, vomiting blood or new breathlessness. A very tight abdomen, reduced urine or inability to eat and drink also needs prompt assessment.

Is the swelling likely to be fluid, an enlarged liver or another cause? Do I need imaging or drainage? What changes in breathing, pain, urine or mental alertness should prompt an urgent call?