11 Common Symptoms Linked To Liver Cancer

7. Itchy Skin Without a Rash

Unrelenting itchiness with no visible rash can be a surprisingly early symptom of liver cancer. This occurs when bile salts accumulate in the bloodstream due to impaired liver function or bile duct blockage caused by a tumor. These salts irritate nerve endings in the skin, creating an intense, widespread itch—often worse at night or after bathing. Unlike allergic reactions, this itching doesn’t present with bumps, redness, or inflammation, making it easy to dismiss. Moisturizers and antihistamines typically offer little relief. If you experience persistent itching that doesn't respond to treatment—and especially if it occurs with fatigue or jaundice—it may be time to investigate liver health as a possible root cause.

8. Shoulder or Right-Sided Pain

While liver cancer primarily affects the abdomen, pain can radiate to less expected areas—like the right shoulder. This referred pain occurs when tumors stretch the liver’s capsule or press against surrounding nerves and tissues. The diaphragm, which shares nerve pathways with the shoulder, can transmit pain signals upward, causing discomfort that feels muscular but isn’t relieved by rest or massage. Individuals may also feel pain in the upper right side of the back or ribs. If you're experiencing persistent pain in these areas without a known injury—and especially if it worsens with deep breaths or physical activity—liver cancer could be one explanation.