The liver is an essential organ in the human body. It performs a wide range of functions, including detoxification, metabolism, and the production of bile to aid in digestion.

However, various factors can contribute to liver problems, leading to significant health issues if left untreated.

1. Jaundice

Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. It occurs when bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells, builds up in the body.

Liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or alcoholic liver disease can cause jaundice.

2. Ascites

Ascites refers to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. It is typically a consequence of liver cirrhosis, a condition in which healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue.

As cirrhosis progresses, it can cause increased pressure in the liver’s blood vessels, leading to fluid leakage into the abdomen. Ascites often presents as a distended belly and swelling in the legs.

3. Hepatomegaly

Hepatomegaly, or an enlarged liver, can be a sign of various liver diseases, including viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Liver enlargement can be detected through physical examination or medical imaging techniques such as ultrasound or CT scan.

4. Portal Vein Hypertension

Portal vein hypertension occurs when there is increased blood pressure within the portal vein, which carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver.

This condition is commonly caused by cirrhosis and can lead to complications such as varices (enlarged veins) in the esophagus or stomach, which may rupture and cause life-threatening bleeding.

5. Liver Hemangioma

A liver hemangioma is a benign tumor made up of abnormal blood vessels within the liver. It is usually discovered incidentally during medical imaging for unrelated reasons.

Most liver hemangiomas do not cause any symptoms or require treatment, but larger hemangiomas may cause abdominal pain or discomfort.

6. Hepatic Steatosis

Hepatic steatosis, commonly known as fatty liver disease, occurs when excess fat accumulates within liver cells. This condition can be caused by obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, diabetes, or metabolic disorders.

Fatty liver disease can range from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and can progress to liver cirrhosis if left untreated.

7. Liver Cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis is a late stage of progressive liver disease, where healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, impeding normal liver function.

Chronic alcoholism, viral hepatitis, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are common causes of liver cirrhosis. Symptoms include fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, weakness, and easy bruising or bleeding.

8. Hepatitis

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, typically caused by viral infections or exposure to harmful substances. There are various types of hepatitis viruses, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.

Symptoms may include fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, and dark urine. Chronic hepatitis can lead to liver cirrhosis.

9. Liver Abscess

A liver abscess is a pocket of pus that forms within the liver. It is usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, often spreading from other parts of the body, such as the gallbladder or the intestines.

Symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. Prompt medical treatment is necessary to prevent complications.

10. Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma, can originate from liver cells or may be a metastatic cancer from other organs.

Chronic liver diseases, such as viral hepatitis or cirrhosis, significantly increase the risk of developing liver cancer. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, weight loss, jaundice, and general weakness.