The liver is one of the body’s most important organs. It helps process nutrients, produces substances needed for digestion, stores energy and breaks down many medicines and harmful substances.
Unfortunately, liver problems can sometimes develop without obvious symptoms during the early stages.
1. Yellowing of the eyes and skin: This is called jaundice. It can happen when bilirubin builds up in the body and may indicate a liver or bile duct problem.
2. Unusual tiredness: Persistent fatigue can occur with liver disease, although many other conditions can cause it.
3. Swelling of the abdomen: Fluid may accumulate inside the abdomen in advanced liver disease, causing noticeable swelling.
4. Swollen legs or ankles: Some people with serious liver problems develop fluid retention in their lower limbs.
5. Dark urine: Urine may become unusually dark when bilirubin levels are elevated.
6. Easy bruising or bleeding: A poorly functioning liver may produce insufficient amounts of certain proteins needed for blood clotting.
7. Persistent itching: Some liver and bile duct conditions can cause widespread itching, sometimes without an obvious rash.
What should you do? Do not attempt to diagnose liver disease from symptoms alone. A doctor may recommend blood tests, scans and other investigations to identify the cause.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, be careful with herbal mixtures and medicines, and maintain a healthy weight.
Seek urgent medical attention if you develop jaundice with confusion, vomiting blood, black stools or severe abdominal swelling.
Final thoughts: Liver problems can be difficult to recognise early. Paying attention to persistent changes and seeking medical assessment can help identify problems before they become more serious.
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