Signs of liver disease: Your liver is one of the hardest-working organs in your body, quietly running in the background 24/7 to keep you healthy. It filters toxins from your blood, helps you digest food, manages energy, and supports many other vital functions. But when the liver starts to struggle, the signs can be very subtle at first. Liver disease often develops gradually, which is why knowing the early symptoms matters.
Why is the liver so important?
Sitting on the right side of your upper abdomen, just under your ribs, the liver handles over 500 different jobs, including:
- Filtering toxins and waste products from your blood
- Breaking down alcohol and many medicines
- Helping to digest food by producing bile
- Storing vitamins, minerals and energy (glycogen)
- Supporting your immune system and overall defence
Also Read | Fatty liver vs. hepatitis: What’s the difference?
What is liver disease?
Liver disease is a broad term that refers to the liver not functioning properly. This can be due to fat buildup, infections or long-term damage. Over time, if left untreated, liver problems can impact the overall functioning of your body.
What are the common types of liver disease?
- Fatty liver disease: Too much fat is stored in the liver
- Hepatitis: Inflammation from viral infections (like hepatitis A, B, C)
- Cirrhosis: Long-term scarring that makes the liver stiff and weak
- Liver cancer: Abnormal cells growing in the liver
- Genetic & autoimmune conditions: Inherited or immune-related diseases that attack liver cells
What are the signs of liver disease?
One of the earliest and most common clues that your liver may be struggling is unusual tiredness. When the liver can’t filter toxins properly, waste products start to build up in the blood. This can leave you feeling weak, heavy, or exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep.
Another key warning sign is yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice. This occurs when a substance called bilirubin accumulates in the body. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and helps remove it. But if the liver isn’t working well, bilirubin stays in the blood and causes the yellow colour you see in the eyes and skin.
Liver issues can also show up on your skin as dryness and persistent itching. This may be due to bile salts or other substances collecting under the skin when the liver is unable to filter them properly.
When should you see a doctor?
If you’ve started noticing these signs together, don’t ignore them. Liver problems are often easier to manage when found early. Talk to a doctor as soon as possible if you notice:
- Yellowing of your skin or eyes
- Swelling in your belly or legs
- Constant, unexplained tiredness
- Sudden or unexplained weight loss
- Confusion, forgetfulness, or changes in behaviour
Can liver disease be prevented?
In many cases, yes. Small daily habits can go a long way in protecting your liver:
- Limit or avoid alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced diet
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B (if advised by your doctor)
- Take medicines only as prescribed
- Get regular check-ups if you have diabetes, obesity, or a family history of liver disease
Also Read | What causes liver diseases? The most common conditions explained
Your liver is quiet, but it’s crucial to your health. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to “small” changes.” They may seem minor, but they can be early signals that something is wrong.