How to Know If the Liver Is in Danger?

Dr.Saurabh Singhal, 3 mins read

Our liver is a vital organ blessed with self-healing power. It’s employed for multiple roles in our body, from detoxifying the body to producing bile for digestion, and storing energy. However, as our lifestyle and dietary habits are changing, this organ is becoming prone to numerous diseases. Not to mention, the bad impact of excess alcohol consumption and certain medicines on the liver.  

Due to all these factors, millions of liver diseases are registered every year globally. Though we hardly care for our liver, which cares for us all the time, we should take appropriate actions. 

Having awareness about the early symptoms of liver damage can help you make the right decision at the right time. This guide will help you out with this.

Common Signs of Liver Damage

• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes due to high bilirubin levels. This happens when your liver is unable to process bilirubin, a yellow substance made when red cells break down. 
• Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen. This pain can be dull, achy, or more severe. Sometimes, the pain can radiate to the shoulders. This happens when fluid builds up or inflammation occurs in the abdomen due to liver damage. 
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak without a clear reason? This could be an indication of liver disease because this organ is crucial for metabolising nutrients and producing energy. So, when liver functions reduce, energy production also decreases. 
• Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent nausea or vomiting, especially after eating fatty foods, could indicate that the liver is unable to process toxins and regulate digestion.
• Dark Urine: Urine that is darker than usual, often accompanied by pale stools. This can happen when the liver is unable to process bilirubin and other substances properly.
• Swelling: Swelling in the legs and ankles due to fluid retention is another indication of liver damage.
• Bruising Easily: Easy bruising or bleeding due to decreased clotting factors. This is because the liver has an important role in the production of proteins involved in blood clotting. So, when the liver gets damaged, the production of these proteins also reduces. 
• Persistent Itching on Skin: This happens due to the accumulation of bile salts and other substances when the liver’s ability to process them is impaired.

Causes of Liver Damage

• Alcohol consumption (Even a small amount can damage the liver)
• Viral infections (Hepatitis A, B, and C)
• Highly processed and low-nutrient diet
• Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen
• Certain medications 

How to Protect Your Liver

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Limit or stop alcohol consumption
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay hydrated
• Minimise exposure to environmental toxins and chemicals
• Discuss with your doctor before taking medicine or supplements
• Don't ignore any symptoms. Consult a doctor immediately.