Symptoms of liver failure
Every organ in our body is important, but there are some organs without which the body cannot function. Like the heart, brain, lungs, and kidneys, the liver is one of the most important organs in the body. The liver is located in the upper part of our abdomen and is the largest gland in the human body. Just as a water filter removes dirt from water, the liver filters toxins and harmful substances from the body, cleans the blood, and helps keep the body healthy. Additionally, many vital functions depend on the liver. For example, if there is an injury anywhere in the body, the liver helps to repair it, and it also helps maintain the body’s hormonal balance.
Now, you must understand the importance of the liver in our body, and it is our responsibility to protect this vital organ.
Below are some symptoms of liver damage:
Upset Stomach
The first symptom of liver damage is often an upset stomach. You may experience various stomach issues, such as frequent gas, sour belching, indigestion, and nausea. These are early symptoms of liver failure. When the level of toxins in your liver increases, consuming unhealthy foods can worsen your stomach condition. Sometimes, a headache may also occur. When the liver is damaged, its ability to function decreases, which causes a slowdown in your metabolism. As a result, your stomach may struggle to digest food properly. So, if your stomach is often upset, liver damage could be the cause. People with frequent stomach problems should consider having their liver checked. Often, liver damage is only discovered after a major illness is diagnosed, so regular check-ups are advisable.
Skin Damage
Skin allergies are typically caused by infections or bacteria, but sometimes, itchy skin and red spots can also be signs of liver problems. When toxins accumulate in the liver, they can affect the skin, making it more sensitive. You may notice red spots appearing in various places on your skin.
Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite is common due to many problems in the body, and liver damage is one possible cause. When the liver is not functioning properly, it affects the digestive system. Poor digestion leads to a gradual decrease in appetite. Indigestion, frequent dizziness, or feeling nauseous after eating are all signs that the liver may be compromised.
Bad Breath
Bad breath can occur due to many foods or habits, but in some cases, it may be caused by liver damage. In fact, liver and stomach problems often go hand in hand. When the stomach is upset, bad breath may follow, which can be an early sign of liver issues.
Feeling Tired
It’s normal to feel tired in today’s busy world, but when the liver starts to deteriorate, you may feel more tired and lethargic. It’s okay if this happens occasionally, but if you feel tired, weak, and lethargic every day, it could indicate liver damage. As the level of toxins in the liver increases, its ability to function decreases, which forces other organs to work harder. As a result, your body feels weak. If this weakness persists for more than two consecutive months, you should have your liver checked.
Increasing Fat
When your liver accumulates too many toxins, it becomes overburdened. These toxins may begin to accumulate in the fat cells of the body, causing the body to gain weight. The stomach may grow larger due to liver damage, making it difficult to lose body fat. In such a situation, it is important to have a liver check-up.
Jaundice
Sometimes, the yellowing of the nails can be mistaken for jaundice. However, jaundice only occurs when the liver is damaged. A weakened liver increases the level of bilirubin in the body, a yellow substance found in the blood. When the liver cannot process bilirubin properly, it builds up in the body, causing a yellowish tint to the skin, eyes, and nails. The liver usually flushes out excess bilirubin through urine, which may cause your urine to appear slightly yellow.
Increased Blood Pressure
When your liver begins to fail, you may not realize it right away. The liver will try to repair itself, but in doing so, it becomes weaker and slower. As the liver’s function decreases, the body’s blood pressure increases. Blood may begin to accumulate in the lower parts of the body. If this happens, it’s important to consult a doctor promptly.
Blood Clotting
If you notice that blood accumulates easily after an injury, or if a small injury causes a large area of bruising, it may be a sign of liver damage.