Problems From Liver Abnormalities

In addition to being the largest organ in the body, the liver plays a crucial role in the body's total health, as it performs more than 400 functions, according to the University of Southern California Department of Surgery. Liver abnormalities present a series of health problems.

Significance

• Abnormalities in the liver imply dysfunction or malfunction of one or more of its basic jobs, which include aiding in digestion to help properly retain and distribute nutrients; detoxification; protein production for normal blood circulation and healing; and filtering chemical and waste substances from the blood.

Medical Conditions

• An abnormal liver is strongly associated with alcohol and drug abuse, but may also be the result of a hereditary condition or viral infection. Hepatitis (A, B and C), cirrhosis, fatty liver, gall bladder syndrome, liver cancer, hemochromatosis and chronic alcoholism liver disease are medical conditions characterized by liver abnormality.

Digestive Problems and Metabolism Problems

• Abnormal liver functions may cause nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion, hemorrhoids, gall stones, intolerance of fatty foods and alcohol, abdominal bloating, and constipation. Additionally, the inability to process fats leads to fat in the bloodstream, clogged arteries and fatty tumors in body organs.

Immune System Problems

• Liver problems also cause immune dysfunction, leading to allergies, asthma, hives, hay fever, food sensitivity, skin rashes, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, risk of autoimmune diseases, and chronic recurrence of viral, bacterial and parasitic infections.

Nervous System Problems

• Liver abnormality may cause depression, mood swings, irritability, poor concentration, hot flashes and headaches.

External Physical Problems

• In addition to rashes and inflammation, an ill liver also causes skin jaundice (yellow coloring), itchiness, brown spots and abnormal bruising. Bad breath, a coated tongue, swollen eyes with dark circles, excessive sweating and foul body odor, red palms and soles, and a flushed facial appearance are other problems that derive from an abnormal liver.