Your liver is a powerhouse organ that carries out hundreds of vital functions, including filtering toxins from your blood. While it’s naturally designed to handle this process, excessive exposure to toxins can overwhelm its capacity, leading to temporary or long-term damage.
When experts talk about liver disease, they usually mean chronic conditions that progressively harm the liver over time. That’s why recognising early warning signs is crucial for timely intervention.
To understand more about this, we spoke to Dr Rajesh Dey, Associate Director, Liver Transplant and Biliary Sciences, Robotic Surgery, and Paediatric Liver Transplant at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali. Here's what he shared with us.
7 Silent Warning Signs Of Liver Disease
The liver is a crucial organ that plays a major role in detoxifying the body, aiding digestion, and storing essential nutrients. However, liver disease often develops silently, making it important to recognise early symptoms before they lead to severe complications. Dr Dey shares key signs that indicate potential liver trouble:
1. Persistent Fatigue
Feeling constantly exhausted and weak can be an early indicator of liver dysfunction. When the liver struggles to perform its functions, the body lacks the necessary energy, leading to ongoing fatigue.
2. Yellowing of Skin and Eyes (Jaundice)
Jaundice is caused by an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that builds up in the blood when the liver isn’t functioning properly. This discolouration can be a sign of liver disease and should be addressed immediately.
3. Abdominal Pain and Bloating
Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen, along with swelling or bloating, can indicate liver inflammation or fluid buildup due to liver-related conditions.
Don't Miss:7 Early Warning Signs of Blocked Heart Veins, According to a Cardiologist
4. Dark Urine and Light-Coloured Stools
Changes in urine and stool colour can point to liver problems. Dark urine suggests high bilirubin levels, while pale stools may indicate a bile duct obstruction or reduced bile production.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss and Reduced Appetite
If you’re losing weight without changing your diet or struggling with a persistent loss of appetite, your liver may not be functioning efficiently. Liver infections, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer can cause these symptoms.
6. Swelling in the Legs and Ankles
Liver disease can lead to fluid retention, resulting in swollen legs and ankles (oedema). This occurs when the liver fails to produce enough proteins to regulate fluid balance in the body.
7. Easy Bruising and Cognitive Issues
If you notice frequent bruising, unexplained bleeding, or cognitive changes such as brain fog, sluggish movements, excessive drowsiness, or difficulty concentrating, these could be signs of liver dysfunction affecting blood clotting and brain function.
Don't Miss:5 Ways Quitting Smoking Can Help Improve Kidney Health, As Per Nephrologist
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve long-term liver health. Maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding excessive alcohol, and scheduling regular health check-ups can help keep your liver in optimal condition.
Keep reading Herzindagi for more such stories.
Credits: Freepik
Take charge of your wellness journey—download the HerZindagi app for daily updates on fitness, beauty, and a healthy lifestyle!
Comments
All Comments (0)
Join the conversation