Liver diseases are on the rise more than ever. According to an estimate by the World Health Organization (WHO), between 1990 and 2017, there has been a 100% increase in the incidence of new liver cancer cases, of which two-thirds are attributable to viral hepatitis, and 16% due to unknown causes, including NAFLD.
The liver is a powerhouse responsible for over 500 vital functions, from detoxifying your blood to aiding digestion. Hence, keeping your liver in good shape is crucial for your overall health and well-being. When your liver is sluggish, your body sends subtle signals that something’s off. Here are five symptoms of a struggling liver that require immediate attention.Persistent fatigue and weakness
Feeling tired all the time, even after a full night’s sleep? Well, it’s not nothing. People often tend to dismiss this sign. But a sluggish liver might be to blame. The liver processes toxins and produces energy-storing glucose. However, when it’s overworked or damaged, it can’t keep up, leaving you exhausted. Chronic fatigue is a common symptom in early liver dysfunction. Studies have confirmed that fatigue is the most commonly encountered symptom in patients with liver disease, and it has a significant impact on their quality of life.Yellowing skin or eyes
A significant sign that your liver is in trouble is jaundice, characterized by yellowing skin or eyes. This happens when the liver fails to process bilirubin, a yellow pigment from red blood cell breakdown. Jaundice can also be a sign of conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis. If your skin or eyes look yellowish, especially when accompanied with dark urine or pale stools, do not wait. Seek medical attention immediately.Digestive issues
There is a direct correlation between a sluggish liver and digestive issues. If you experience bloating, nausea, or loss of appetite that is unexplained, it could be a sign of liver dysfunction. The liver produces bile, which is essential for breaking down fats. When bile production slows down, you might feel discomfort after fatty meals or experience frequent indigestion. Persistent digestive problems, especially paired with other symptoms, could indicate liver strain. A 2014 study found that up to 80% of patients with cirrhosis have been reported to have one or more relevant GI symptoms. The most common GI symptoms reported include abdominal bloating in 49.5% of patients, abdominal pain in 24%, belching in 18.7%, diarrhea in 13.3%, and constipation in 8%Don’t dismiss ongoing stomach issues as mere diet problems.Itchy skin
Yes, that’s right. Itchy skin is a crucial sign that your liver may not be working as it is supposed to be. Itchy skin, particularly without a visible rash, is a sign of liver dysfunction. When the liver struggles to filter toxins, it builds up in the blood, and irritates the skin. Itching, which is often worse at night, is a common symptom of cholestasis, a condition where bile flow is obstructed. If the itching persists, it is important to talk to your doctor and get a liver function test. Easy bruising or bleeding
If you bruise easily, it should not be dismissed. It’s not normal. Similarly, frequent nosebleeds are signs that your liver might be struggling. The liver produces proteins essential for blood clotting. But when it’s sluggish, clotting factors diminish, leading to easy bruising or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts. This is a red flag for liver damage, especially in chronic conditions like fatty liver disease. If you spot unusual bruising, don’t ignore it; get it checked.
