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Symptoms of Reduced Liver Function

A healthy liver is important to keep the body functioning properly. Sometimes, however, the liver does not perform its job as well as it should. There is not just one reason for reduced liver function or liver damage; there are many. Since there is no chance of survival without a liver, it is important to recognize the causes and symptoms that can make the liver fail.

  1. Functions

    • The liver has more than 5,000 functions. Helping digestion, it produces and secretes bile, which breaks down fatty acids. The liver regulates blood clotting, aids metabolism and helps remove waste. It also converts excess glucose and stores it as glycogen, which can be converted back to glucose for energy.

    Features

    • The liver is the second largest organ in the body. It is located in the upper right-hand corner of the abdominal cavity and weighs three pounds. The liver is an essential organ and survival is not possible without it. It is a resilient organ as it is the only organ able to rejuvenate. Rejuvenation is possible even if up to 75 percent of the liver is damaged or destroyed.

    Identification

    • Fatigue, easy bruising or bleeding, constipation, allergies, weight loss, jaundice, edema, mental confusion, reduced bile flow, dark urine, gallbladder problems, bloody stool and liver enlargement are all symptoms of reduced liver function. Doctors can distinguish between acute and chronic liver disease and the specifics of the disease through blood tests called liver function tests. Liver biopsies and imaging tests such as MRIs and ultrasounds are also used for diagnosis.

    Causes

    • Alcohol, drugs, cancer, hepatitis, medications and poisons can cause reduced liver function. Autoimmune disorders and viral infections can also damage the liver. Body piercing, tattoos, unprotected sex and working at a job that entails exposure to other people's blood and body fluids can result in conditions that negatively affect the liver. According to the Mayo Clinic, some alternative herbal treatments such as kava, black cohosh and valerian can be harmful to the liver.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for reduced liver function varies by patient. Some may require only medication while others may require surgery and even a liver transplant

    Prevention

    • Alcohol should be used in moderation, if at all. Medication should be taken as directed and not mixed with alcohol. See a doctor about getting vaccinated if hepatitis is a risk. Maintain a healthy weight and diet, which can also help keep the liver healthy.

    Warning

    • Acute liver malfunction due to medication overdose or food poisoning can occur in as little as 48 hours.

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