Signs of Liver Disorder

The human liver performs a variety of functions that are vital to survival. It eliminates toxic substances from the body, as well as aiding in digestion. Damage to the liver can occur in a variety of ways, such as from diseases like hepatitis or cancer, or cirrhosis due to prolonged heavy consumption of alcohol. Symptoms of liver problems do occur, but often not until a liver condition is in its advanced stages.
  1. Abdominal Pain

    • Pain and swelling in the abdomen could be a sign of liver trouble, especially if located on the upper right side. It is often due to retention of fluids. If the abdomen continues to swell, pressure on the ribcage could occur, often resulting in severe pain, according to Liver-disease-symptoms.com.

    Loss of Appetite

    • A loss of appetite may be present, along with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Liver-disease-symptoms.com states that severe weight loss could then follow, leading to the development of anemia due to an improper diet. Stomach ulcers could also develop, which would be signified by the presence of blood in vomit.

    Yellowing of the Eyes and Skin

    • Liver-disease-symptoms.com also indicates that a yellowing of the whites of the eyes, along with the skin turning a yellow or orange color, can indicate jaundice. A major function of the liver is to filter impurities from the blood through the production of bile. Jaundice is an indication that the filtering process is not occurring properly. An itching sensation that does not go away may also be present.

    Fatigue

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, a pervasive feeling of fatigue might mean that liver damage is present. This often results from some types of jaundice, as well as the loss of weight due to poor appetite.

    Changes in Stool or Urine

    • The Mayo Clinic also states that another sign of liver problems is the production of an abnormal stool, such as the presence of blood, or if it is pale in color. If the liver is not producing bile, this causes the lightening of the stool. The urine may also be darker in color.

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