liver mass

liver mass

1. jaundice

   • liver failure/ decreased function
     • treat underlying cause of liver failure/mass. Cancer tx to improve liver function

2. weakness/falls

   • decrease in liver function causing fatigue and possible dizziness
   • proper rest, fall precautions

3. nausea

   • abdominal pain
     • Zofran

4. vomiting

   • secondary to nausea and abd pain
     • antiemetic, increase clear fluids, electrolyte replacement

5. weight loss

   • decrease food intake secondary to loss of appetite & nausea
     • supplemental meals w nutrient dense shakes, multivitamin decrease nausea

6. loss of appetite

   • abdominal pain/nausea
     • antiemetics/increase foods pt enjoys

7. enlarged liver

   • inflammation due to liver failure, liver mass
     • decrease drugs hard on liver such as acetaminophen & alcohol

8. abdominal pain

   • steroids, chemo, radiation to shrink liver and decrease pain
   • increase fluids and fiber to prevent or relieve constipation
   • enlarged/inflamed liver

9. itching

   • release of histamines/jaundice
     • anti-histmaines, other anti-itch creams

10. ascites/fluid build up in abdomen

    • remove excess fluid from abdomen paracentesis

11. feeling full after small meal

    • due to liver mass/fluid buildup in abdomen-ascites
      • increase nutrient dense foods, decrease fluid buildup

12. enlarged spleen

    • abnormal blood cells due to cancer
    • rest, avoid heavy physical activity, surgery in serious cases