The liver is an essential organ in the human body that plays a major role in digestion, metabolism, and elimination of toxins.
However, liver disease is becoming more common, and many people may not even realize they have a problem until it’s too late. In this article, we’ll discuss the top five symptoms of liver trouble and what you can do to keep your liver healthy.
1. Abdominal Pain and Swelling
One of the most common symptoms of liver trouble is abdominal pain and swelling. You may feel a dull ache or sharp pain in the upper right side of your abdomen, near your liver. Your abdomen may also feel swollen or bloated.
These symptoms may be more noticeable after meals or when you’re lying down.
There are many potential causes of abdominal pain and swelling, but liver disease is a common one. Hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer can all cause these symptoms.
If you’re experiencing persistent or severe abdominal pain or swelling, it’s important to see a doctor for evaluation.
2. Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition in which the skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow. This is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a yellowish pigment that’s produced when red blood cells are broken down.
Normally, the liver processes and removes bilirubin from the body, but if the liver is damaged, bilirubin can accumulate and cause jaundice.
Jaundice is a common symptom of liver disease, but it can also be caused by other factors such as gallstones or pancreatic cancer. If you notice that your skin or eyes are turning yellow, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
3. Fatigue and Weakness
Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms of many health conditions, but they can also be a sign of liver trouble. When the liver is damaged, it may not be able to produce enough energy to keep the body running smoothly.
This can lead to persistent fatigue and weakness, even after you’ve gotten plenty of rest.
If you’re feeling tired and weak all the time, it’s important to see a doctor. They can help determine if liver disease or another condition is causing your symptoms.
4. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of many health conditions, including liver disease. When the liver is damaged, it can’t process toxins and waste products as efficiently as it should.
This can lead to a buildup of harmful substances in the body, which can cause nausea and vomiting.
If you’re experiencing persistent nausea and vomiting, it’s important to see a doctor. They can help determine if liver disease or another condition is causing your symptoms.
5. Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
Loss of appetite and weight loss are common symptoms of many health conditions, including liver disease. When the liver is damaged, it can’t produce enough bile to help digest fat.
This can lead to loss of appetite and weight loss, even if you’re eating a normal diet.
If you’re experiencing persistent loss of appetite and weight loss, it’s important to see a doctor. They can help determine if liver disease or another condition is causing your symptoms.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to take them seriously and see a doctor for evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment of liver disease can make a big difference in your health and well-being.
In addition to seeing a doctor, there are also steps you can take to keep your liver healthy. These include eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and managing any chronic health conditions you may have.