The first symptoms of liver cancer can be from the effect of waste products building up in the blood. The skin becomes yellow, a condition called jaundice. The urine may turn dark orange from the level of waste products in the blood. Nausea and vomiting are also common. Significant weight loss usually occurs. As the liver enlarges from cancerous growth, it becomes tender. Fluid, or ascites, can develop in the abdomen. The swelling from this can be painful.