Abdominal pain and swelling
Discomfort and pain in the upper right part of the abdomen indicate liver damage. Because the liver is located in this area, any tumor or inflammation can cause pain and tenderness. In advanced cases, liver damage can cause fluid to build up in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), causing swelling and discomfort. If your stomach is swollen and tender, it could be a sign that something serious is affecting your liver.
Loss of appetite
A sudden loss of appetite can be a sign of liver damage. When your liver isn’t working properly, it affects your digestive system and reduces your appetite. This leads to unintentional weight loss. If you notice a long-term decrease in appetite, this, along with other symptoms, may be due to liver dysfunction.
Dark urine
Even if you’re well hydrated, dark urine can be a sign of liver damage. Bilirubin, which is accumulated in the blood due to liver failure, is excreted in the urine and becomes dark in color. Dark urine can be caused by dehydration, but if it persists despite drinking a lot of fluids, it could be related to liver problems.
Pale, bloody, stools
Healthy liver function is essential for digestion, and liver damage can interfere with this process. Pale or clay-colored stools indicate a lack of bile, which is produced by the liver to aid in digestion. On the other hand, bloody or tarry stools can be a sign of internal bleeding, often associated with severe liver damage. If you notice a persistent change in the color of your stool, it’s important to see your doctor.
Swollen feet and ankles
Liver damage can cause fluid to accumulate in various parts of the body, especially in the feet and ankles. This swelling, called edema, occurs when the liver cannot produce enough albumin, a protein that prevents fluid from leaving the blood vessels. When albumin levels drop, fluid accumulates in the legs, causing significant swelling. If your feet and ankles are constantly swollen, it could be a sign of liver problems.
Bruises easily
The liver produces proteins that are important for blood clotting. When the liver is damaged, its ability to produce these proteins is impaired, and there is a risk of bruising and bleeding. If you bruise more easily than usual or notice nosebleeds or bleeding gums, this could be a sign of liver failure.
Itchy skin
Persistent itching can sometimes be associated with liver damage. This is because the bile that flows from the liver into the gallbladder accumulates in the blood when the liver is not functioning properly. Accumulation of bile salts under the skin can cause severe itching. Unlike normal itching caused by dry skin or allergies, liver-related itching is widespread and not relieved by moisturizers or antihistamines.
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea or frequent vomiting are common symptoms of liver damage, especially in the early stages. The liver plays a major role in detoxifying the body, and when overworked, nausea can occur. Digestive problems such as nausea and vomiting may occur after eating. If these symptoms do not go away and are accompanied by other symptoms, it is worth checking the liver function.
What to do if you notice these symptoms
Liver damage can be repaired if detected early, but ignoring the warning signs can lead to cirrhosis..