The liver performs many life-sustaining functions, producing hormones and proteins essential for other parts of the body. It cleanses toxins, produces bile, regulates blood volume, and metabolizes proteins, carbohydrates, and fats for the body to use.

Liver problems can disrupt the entire body's function. Irreversible liver damage can lead to liver failure, requiring a transplant or resulting in death. Symptoms manifest in various ways. Early recognition can enable timely diagnosis and treatment.

Jaundice is a condition where the skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow. In some cases, even urine becomes dark yellow. These are warning signs of liver damage and other underlying conditions. A healthy liver absorbs bilirubin, converting it into bile for digestion, with the remainder excreted in stool. Jaundice occurs when the liver cannot efficiently process red blood cells, leading to excessive bilirubin and yellowing of the skin.

Itchy skin can result from a poorly functioning or weakened liver. High concentrations of bile salts accumulate under the skin, causing itching and flaking. Skin problems that develop seemingly randomly are often caused by liver issues. They are often the first and most obvious signs. However, not everyone with itchy skin has high bile salt levels; other conditions can also cause it. Consulting a specialist and undergoing necessary tests can help rule out liver disease.

Loss of appetite is another symptom. One function of bile, produced by the liver, is to aid digestion. When the liver malfunctions, patients often experience a loss of appetite, leading to weight loss, abdominal pain, nausea, and decreased energy.

Frequent bleeding and bruising should prompt a medical checkup to ensure proper liver function. Easy bruising or slow wound healing is due to a shortage of specific proteins essential for blood clotting. These proteins are produced by the liver and their production can be disrupted by underlying liver diseases. In some cases, patients may vomit blood or notice blood in their stool.

Pain and swelling in the upper right abdomen can indicate liver damage. This damage can cause inflammation, leading to fluid buildup in the abdomen, causing sharp pain during movement and breathing.

Lack of focus can also be a sign. When the liver cannot filter toxins from the blood, it hinders other bodily functions. Toxin buildup can manifest in memory and mental health issues. Lack of focus, confusion, mild memory loss, mood swings, and unusual personality changes are all signs of potential liver problems.

Bao Bao (According to Times of India)