Early Signs Of Liver Problems And What To Do With Them
Do you often feel tired even though you’re not moving around that much? How about feeling itchy most of the time? These are just two of the early signs of liver problems that you should be concerned about.
Author:Stefano MclaughlinReviewer:Karan EmeryOct 09, 202374.4K Shares1.3M Views
The liver is an important organ in the human body that is required for maintaining good health, which explains why people should be aware of the early signs of liver problems.
One of the main functions of the liver is to digest and absorb nutrients from the food we consume. In addition, it aids in the process of digestion.
The liver is responsible for a variety of other functions in the body, making it critical for people to know its condition.
The early signs of liver problems should therefore be carefully considered.
Liver Disease Myths
How Do You Know If Something Is Wrong With Your Liver?
It can be easy to detect some of the early signs of liver problems because either you see them or you feel them.
(1) feeling gassy
When you feel gassy more often – that is, you feel bloated (feel full in your stomach) – that’s another one of the early signs of liver problems.
Digestive juices help breakdown the food we eat. The liver secretes them but if it is not healthy, it may not be able to do so.
It means that a liver problem can also cause problems in the digestive system.
(2) fatigue/tiredness
Food provides people with energy. As previously mentioned, the liver helps breakdown the food by secreting digestive juices.
If the liver is unhealthy, it cannot break down food properly. Hence, the body doesn’t get all the energy it needs.
That’s when you will begin feeling tired most of the time even if you haven’t done much physical activity.
(3) itchy skin
Under the layers of the skin, according to Healthline, bile salt can accumulate once the liver becomes unhealthy. You will frequently feel itchy.
(4) abdominal pain
The liver is located close to the rib cage on the right side of the body. When the liver’s health starts to decline, you may feel some pain in your lower abdomen. There can also be pain on your ribs.
(5) changes in urine color
One of the visible early signs of liver problems that you can check pertains to the color of your urine. Observe its color the next time you take a pee.
According to LiverSupport.com, if the color of your urine is “orange, amber or brown,” then it could be possible that you’ve got a liver problem.
(6) jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes)
The color of your skin may change as a result of liver damage.
You will notice that your skin complexion suddenly turns yellowish. You may also start looking paler. The tips of your nails will also become yellowish.
This skin discoloration is one of the early signs of liver problems. The liver is no longer functioning properly because it cannot anymore expel out of the body the yellowish pigment called bilirubin.
When bilirubin starts to build up (because the liver cannot help in getting it out of the body), the skin will turn yellowish. This is called jaundice. The white area of the eyes can also become yellowish.
(7) edema/oedema (fluid retention)
Usually, the feet are where the fluid retention happens. The foot starts to swell as fluid collects in this part of the body. Fluid retention can also take place in your hands, thighs, and ankles.
(8) weight loss
Liver disease can make you thin because it affects the body’s nutrient absorption (from the food you eat). Even if you’re not on a conscious diet, you will find yourself suddenly losing a lot of weight.
Edema is one of the early signs of liver problems. So, if you have some swelling in those body parts mentioned above, it could be because of a poorly functioning liver.
(9) blood in the stool
If you see blood in your stool, better see a doctor ASAP.
(10) nausea
Two early signs of liver problems are heartburn (other names: acid indigestion and acid reflux; you feel a burning sensation in your lower chest area) and upset stomach (indigestion). The matter becomes worse if you start vomiting.
How Do I Make My Liver Healthy Again?
If you happen to experience one or some of the early signs of liver problems referred to earlier, don’t totally panic!
The American Liver Foundation recommends the following measures you can do to help your liver become healthy again:
(1) ”Exercise regularly.”
(2) ”Eat a balanced diet.”
Include vegetables and fruits in your daily meals. Eat foods rich in fiber(e.g., apples, beans, berries, broccoli potatoes, whole grains). Avoid fatty foods, such as those rich in saturated fat.
(3) ”Drink a lot of water.”
(4) “Use alcohol responsibly.”
You may either quit drinking alcoholic beverages or be moderate in consuming them.
(5) “Avoid toxins.”
Stop cigarette smokingand avoid second-hand smoke. Always wear a face mask when using insecticides and cleaning products that contain chemicals.
Conclusion
Knowing the early signs of liver problems is crucial because, as stated earlier, the liver does so many things in the body to keep it strong and healthy.
Cleveland Clinic warns that liver failure can lead to other health problems, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and Hepatitis B and C.
If you see and/or feel one or two of the early signs of liver problems stated in this article, make sure to consult a physician.
Stefano Mclaughlin
Author
Stefano Mclaughlin is a Psychologist focused on mental health, emotional well-being, and healthcare policy. He studied Psychology and Public Health at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, gaining a deep understanding of the intersection between mental health and public policy.
Stefano's mission is clear: he aims to destigmatize mental health discussions, improve access to mental healthcare, and promote emotional well-being for all. Drawing from personal experiences with anxiety and depression, Stefano shares real stories to make mental health topics more relatable and less intimidating.
In addition to his advocacy work, Stefano enjoys delving into books, experimenting in the kitchen, and embarking on new adventures. These hobbies fuel his creativity and inspire fresh perspectives for his advocacy work.
Karan Emery
Reviewer
Karan Emery, an accomplished researcher and leader in health sciences, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals, brings over two decades of experience to the table. Holding a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Stanford University, Karan's credentials underscore her authority in the field.
With a track record of groundbreaking research and numerous peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals, Karan's expertise is widely recognized in the scientific community.
Her writing style is characterized by its clarity and meticulous attention to detail, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. Apart from her professional endeavors, Karan enjoys cooking, learning about different cultures and languages, watching documentaries, and visiting historical landmarks.
Committed to advancing knowledge and improving health outcomes, Karan Emery continues to make significant contributions to the fields of health, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.
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