15 Signs of Liver Failure: You Need To Know
Find the critical 15 signs of liver failure, from persistent fatigue to jaundice and abdominal pain. Liver failure is a severe medical condition characterised by the gradual or rapid decline in the liver's ability to function. The liver is involved in many biological activities and bodily processes, including filtering toxins from the blood, producing proteins, and aiding in digestion. When the liver fails, it can lead to a range of symptoms and complications. Signs of liver failure include persistent fatigue, jaundice, digestive issues, abdominal pain and swelling, unexplained weight loss, dark urine, pale-coloured stools, itchy skin, easy bruising, fluid retention, confusion, increased sensitivity to medications, spider-like blood vessels on the skin, chronic pain in the upper right side, and elevated liver enzymes in blood tests. These signs indicate a compromised liver function and prompt medical attention is crucial for diagnosis and appropriate management. If you suspect liver issues, A complete evaluation requires consulting with a healthcare expert.
Persistent Fatigue
If you find yourself unusually tired all the time, it could be a sign of liver damage. Fatigue that does not go away can be caused by liver disease, which is essential for the creation of energy.
Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes (Jaundice)
Jaundice, also known as yellowing of the eye whites and skin, is one of the most obvious symptoms of liver damage. This occurs due to the buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment.
Digestive Issues
Liver damage can cause digestive problems such as nausea and vomiting. You might also experience a loss of appetite and an aversion to certain foods.
Abdominal Pain and Swelling
One of the most noticeable signs of liver Damage is jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. The liver may become enlarged, causing discomfort and a feeling of fullness.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexpected and abrupt weight loss may indicate liver failure. The liver's role in metabolism can be compromised, leading to weight loss despite no changes in diet or activity.
Dark Urine
Liver dysfunction can result in dark urine, a sign that there may be an excess of bilirubin in the body. This can give urine a darker, brownish colour.
Pale-Colored Stools
On the other hand, stools might become pale or clay-coloured due to problems with bile production and flow.
Itchy Skin
Itchy skin may indicate damage to the liver. This may be due to the buildup of bile salts, leading to irritation.
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Get A Second OpinionBruising Easily
A damaged liver may not produce enough clotting factors, resulting in easy bruising and prolonged bleeding.
Fluid Retention
Liver failure can lead to fluid retention, causing swelling in the legs and abdomen. This is known as oedema.
Confusion and Difficulty Concentrating
The liver plays a role in filtering toxins from the blood. If it's not functioning correctly, toxins can build up and affect the brain, leading to confusion and difficulty concentrating.
Increased Sensitivity to Medications
A damaged liver may struggle to metabolize medications effectively, leading to increased sensitivity or adverse reactions to certain drugs.
Spider-Like Blood Vessels
Spider angiomas, small blood vessels that resemble spiders, may appear on the skin due to changes in blood flow associated with liver dysfunction.
Chronic Pain in the Upper Right Side
Because the liver is located in the upper right side of the abdomen, discomfort or pain, may indicate a problem with the liver.
Elevated Liver Enzymes
Elevated liver enzyme levels, such as those found in ALT and AST blood tests, may be a sign of liver dysfunction or injury.
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
Signs of liver failure include persistent fatigue, jaundice, digestive issues, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, dark urine, pale stools, itchy skin, easy bruising, fluid retention, confusion, increased sensitivity to medications, spider-like blood vessels on the skin, chronic pain in the upper right side, and elevated liver enzymes in blood tests. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation.
Liver failure is often categorized into different stages. Stage 1 typically involves mild damage, and symptoms may not be apparent. However, subtle signs like fatigue, slight abdominal discomfort, or elevated liver enzymes in blood tests may be present. It's crucial to address liver issues early to prevent progression to more severe stages.
The warning signs of a damaged liver include persistent fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain and swelling, and digestive issues. These indicators may vary in severity, and it's essential to recognize them early on to initiate proper medical care.
Curing liver failure is dependent on the underlying cause and the extent of damage. In some cases, lifestyle changes, medications, or treatments for specific liver conditions may help manage the disease and prevent further deterioration. However, advanced stages may require more intensive interventions, including liver transplantation.
Consume foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, nuts, and olive oil to help heal your liver. Pick fruits, vegetables, and whole grains over processed foods and excessive alcohol consumption. For the health of your liver, stay hydrated.