5 Warning Signs of Liver Damage
Are you aware of the fact that every time you take an antibiotic or a painkiller, it adversely affects the liver? In most cases, problems in the liver occur due to erratic lifestyle, wrong food habits, and uninhibited use of medicines.
The liver is the largest organ in the body and it helps in digesting food and removing toxins. It sends certain warning signals, in case its function is impaired.
Oversensitive skin, general feeling of being unwell and frequent headaches are some common signs of liver damage experienced by those affected. Read on to know the five warning signs of liver damage that should never be ignored.
Dark-colored urine
Change in the color of the urine is an important sign which should never be ignored. This is due to the presence of bile pigments which are not excreted. Instead, they build up in the blood and are released through urine.
Loss of appetite
Loss of appetite is one of the typical signs of liver damage. The urge to eat is significantly reduced and digestion becomes poor.
Vomiting
Vomiting and a frequently upset stomach are the initial signs of liver damage. Nausea, repeated incidents of acid reflux and vomiting are the warning signs and should never be overlooked. Many people experience acute indigestion and frequent diarrhea since the function of the liver is impaired.
Abdominal pain and swelling
The affected person experiences specific pain in the right upper part of the abdomen, right under the ribs. The pain is severe and intense. It may even radiate to the right upper shoulder or back. Many times, pain is experienced in the upper middle part of the abdomen and cramping can be felt in the lower abdomen. Swelling in the abdomen is also amongst the important warning signs of liver damage.
Fatigue
Always feeling tired and experiencing excessive fatigue is an indication of an impaired liver. Because the liver is not functioning properly, it impacts the breakdown of food and consequent release of energy. This results in toxins getting accumulated, which in turn, is why people feel tired. There is weight loss too, thus adding to the feeling of extreme fatigue.
It is very important to consult a medical expert and get proper investigation such as liver function tests and scan done for an appropriate diagnosis.