The human liver is an important bodily organ essential for living a healthy life. Its primary function is to breakdown nutrients from the food we eat and help with digestion. It performs several other functions which makes it important to pay attention to the health of your liver. Here are symptoms of liver damage that should be taken seriously:
1. Skin and Nail Changes
One visible symptom of liver damage changes in the color of your skin. If your skin starts becoming paler or yellowish and your nail tips turn yellow your liver is not performing well and requires help. Newly yellow tints in the skin are caused by the liver not releasing toxins which leads to bilirubin accumulation beneath the skin. Several nail problems such as a pale nail, white nail, spoon nail, and nail ridges are also associated with liver problems.
2. Abdominal Changes
The liver is located near the rib cage when liver health starts deteriorating it causes pain in the lower abdomen and ribs. Ascites can develop if the problem goes untreated.
3. Frequent Gassy Sensation
If you frequently suffer from a gassy sensation accompanied by stool pressure its an indication that the liver is not able to secrete digestive juices which are essential to break down food. It also means the digestive system is affected by liver problems.
4. Tiredness
When the liver breaks down food it releases energy used to perform daily tasks. Getting tired easily is a sign of lack of energy which can indicate the liver is unable to do its job properly.
5. Urine Changes
When our liver starts getting damaged the color of urine changes to darker variants of yellow. It may also become bloody or tar-colored. Some think this change in color is due to dehydration, if you are ingesting sufficient fluids it indicates poor liver health.
6. Itchy Skin
An indicator of liver problems associated with skin is itchiness. If you find itchy areas on your skin that continuously get worse its a sign of liver problems.
7. Nausea
Digestive issues such as indigestion and acid reflux are symptoms of liver damage. If digestive problems or nausea does not improve with dietary changes its a sign of liver damage. In severe cases, it may also lead to vomiting.
8. Severe Weight Loss
Sudden, unplanned weight loss can be seen as a symptom of liver damage. If you are losing weight without trying it may be from loss of appetite which happens when the liver becomes weak making you thin and malnourished.
9. Fluid Retention
Fluid retention in various parts of the body, especially feet, is a sign of a weak liver. This condition is known as edema and looks like swelling, it can happen in your ankles, hands, feet, and thighs. If you press a finger gently into a swollen area the imprint will stay a few seconds with edema.
10. Stool Changes
Changes in stool can indicate liver problems. If you observe traces of blood in the bathroom, call your doctor. Other signs of liver damage associated with stool may include periods of constipation or irritable bowel syndrome.
Edited by: Jessa (March 1, 2019)