The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body. It performs a variety of functions, including detoxifying harmful substances, producing bile to aid in digestion, and storing essential nutrients. When the liver is damaged, it can affect the body’s overall health and lead to serious complications.
Liver damage can occur for many reasons, including alcohol abuse, viral infections, obesity, and medication side effects. In many cases, liver damage can be reversible if detected early and treated appropriately. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the warning signs and symptoms of liver damage that should not be ignored. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common signs and symptoms of liver damage.
Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition that causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow. It is a common symptom of liver damage and is caused by the buildup of bilirubin, a yellowish substance produced when the liver breaks down red blood cells. When the liver is damaged, it cannot process bilirubin, and it accumulates in the blood, leading to jaundice.
Abdominal pain and swelling
Abdominal pain and swelling can be a sign of liver damage. When the liver is damaged, it can cause inflammation, which can lead to pain and swelling in the abdomen. This pain is usually felt in the upper right side of the abdomen, near the liver.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of liver damage. When the liver is damaged, it cannot perform its normal functions, which can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body. These toxins can cause fatigue and weakness.
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting can be a sign of liver damage. When the liver is damaged, it cannot produce enough bile to aid in digestion, leading to nausea and vomiting. In addition, a buildup of toxins in the body can also cause these symptoms.
Loss of appetite
A loss of appetite can be a sign of liver damage. When the liver is damaged, it cannot produce enough bile to aid in digestion, which can lead to a loss of appetite. In addition, a buildup of toxins in the body can also cause this symptom.
Dark urine
Dark urine can be a sign of liver damage. When the liver is damaged, it cannot process bilirubin, leading to a buildup of this substance in the blood. Bilirubin can give urine a dark color, indicating liver damage.
Pale stools
Pale stools can be a sign of liver damage. When the liver is damaged, it cannot produce enough bile to aid in digestion, leading to pale stools.
Itchy skin
Itchy skin can be a sign of liver damage. When the liver is damaged, it cannot process toxins, leading to a buildup of these substances in the blood. These toxins can cause itching and other skin problems.
Swelling in the legs and ankles
Swelling in the legs and ankles can be a sign of liver damage. When the liver is damaged, it cannot produce enough protein, leading to a buildup of fluid in the body. This can cause swelling in the legs and ankles.
Easy bruising and bleeding
Easy bruising and bleeding can be a sign of liver damage. When the liver is damaged, it cannot produce enough clotting factors, leading to easy bruising and bleeding.
Mental confusion
Mental confusion can be a sign of liver damage. When the liver is damaged, it cannot process toxins, leading to a buildup of these substances in the blood. These toxins can affect brain function, causing confusion and other mental problems.