How do you know if your liver is struggling?

The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body, responsible for a wide range of functions such as filtering toxins, producing bile for digestion, and storing essential nutrients. When the liver is not functioning properly, it can lead to serious health issues. However, the liver is a resilient organ and can often show signs of struggling before it reaches a critical stage. In this article, we will discuss how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a struggling liver.

1. Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition where the skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow due to a buildup of bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced by the liver when it breaks down old red blood cells. When the liver is struggling, it may not be able to process bilirubin effectively, leading to its accumulation in the body. Jaundice is often one of the first signs of liver problems and should not be ignored.

2. Abdominal pain and swelling
The liver is located in the upper right side of the abdomen, and when it is struggling, it can cause pain and discomfort in that area. The pain may be dull or sharp and can range from mild to severe. In addition to pain, the liver may also become enlarged, leading to a feeling of fullness or bloating in the abdomen.

3. Changes in urine and stool
The liver plays a crucial role in filtering waste products from the body, including bilirubin. When the liver is struggling, it may not be able to remove bilirubin effectively, leading to dark urine. In some cases, the urine may also appear foamy or have a foul odor. Similarly, the stool may also change in color, becoming pale or clay-colored, due to a lack of bile.

4. Fatigue and weakness
The liver is responsible for producing and storing essential nutrients, such as glycogen, which is used for energy. When the liver is struggling, it may not be able to produce enough glycogen, leading to fatigue and weakness. In addition, the buildup of toxins in the body can also cause a feeling of general malaise and lack of energy.

5. Loss of appetite and weight loss
The liver plays a crucial role in digestion by producing bile, which helps break down fats. When the liver is struggling, it may not be able to produce enough bile, leading to a loss of appetite and difficulty digesting fatty foods. This can result in unintentional weight loss, which should not be ignored.

6. Nausea and vomiting
The buildup of toxins in the body due to a struggling liver can also cause nausea and vomiting. In addition, the liver is responsible for filtering out alcohol and other harmful substances from the body. When the liver is not functioning properly, these substances can build up and cause nausea and vomiting.

7. Changes in skin and nails
The liver plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and nails. When the liver is struggling, it may not be able to remove toxins from the body, leading to skin problems such as itchiness, rashes, and dryness. In addition, the nails may become brittle and prone to breaking.

8. Mental confusion and difficulty concentrating
The buildup of toxins in the body due to a struggling liver can also affect brain function. This can lead to mental confusion, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems. In severe cases, it can even lead to a condition called hepatic encephalopathy, which can cause confusion, disorientation, and even coma.

In conclusion, the liver is a vital organ that performs numerous essential functions in the body. When it is struggling, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including jaundice, abdominal pain, changes in urine and stool, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, changes in skin and nails, and mental confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and treatment of liver problems can help prevent serious complications and improve overall health.