How to Recognize the Symptoms of Liver Disease

The liver is considered to be the largest organ in our body and it performs many functions. It directly or indirectly accounts for growth, immunization, nutrition and reproduction. A liver disease can disrupt any of these vital processes. You can find liver disorder by identifying several symptoms.

Instructions

• 1

  See if the patient has discoloration of skin. The skin and eyes acquire a yellowish tinge and the urine turns dark yellow. It is called jaundice and this is considered to be the primary sign of liver disease.

• 2

  Track the patient's diet. Loss of appetite leading to weight loss is indicative of liver dysfunction. The patient may become anemic and have a nauseating feeling.

• 3

  Check for light colored stools as it indicates the beginning of liver disorder. A liver patient may also complain of irritable bowels or irregular bowel movements.

• 4

  Find out if there is distended abdomen. Swelling under the right lower ribs is a common complaint of liver patients. It can put severe pressure on the diaphragm that results in painful breathing.

• 5

  Examine the shape and appearance of the nails. Curved and whitish look of nails also suggests a liver problem.

• 6

  Notice nose bleeding and easy bruises as it shows liver abnormality and deficiency of proteins.

• 7

  Test for polydipsia and polyuria-excessive thirst and frequent urination can occur in case of a liver disease.

• 8

  Frequent headaches, dizziness, spasms, irritability, depression and so on are also indicative of liver problem.