How Does Your Body Reveal Liver Disease
5 Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore
Written by: Abeer Al-Qadi:
The liver is a vital organ that performs complex and essential functions in the body, such as purifying the blood, synthesizing proteins, and regulating metabolism. Despite its importance, the liver can be susceptible to serious disorders that initially go unnoticed, making early detection difficult. However, there are some warning signs to watch for, as they may indicate a major liver problem that requires immediate medical intervention.
Below, the Times of India website reviews the most prominent symptoms that indicate serious liver problems:
1- Vomiting Blood
Vomiting blood is a symptom that should never be ignored, as it may indicate a rupture of esophageal varices resulting from liver cirrhosis.
This rupture is a serious complication that requires urgent medical intervention, as it carries the risk of internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening.
2- Difficulty Breathing
Not all breathing problems are caused by lung disease. In some cases, the cause may be fluid accumulation in the abdomen or lungs, resulting from liver failure. This symptom may be an early indicator of worsening liver disease, especially in patients with ascites.
3- Black Stool
Dark or black stools may indicate internal bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, especially in cases of esophageal variceal rupture associated with liver damage. The liver's decreased ability to produce clotting factors increases the likelihood of bleeding, which is reflected in the color of the stool.
4- Mental Confusion or Drowsiness
When the liver fails to filter toxins from the blood, such as ammonia, these substances begin to accumulate in the body, reaching the brain and affecting its functions.
This disorder may manifest as mental confusion, poor concentration, or excessive drowsiness, a condition known as "hepatic encephalopathy."
5- Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes (Jaundice)
Jaundice occurs as a result of the accumulation of bilirubin in the body due to the liver's inability to eliminate it. Jaundice appears as a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes and is one of the most obvious signs of liver dysfunction.
Health Alert:
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should not delay seeing a specialist, as prompt diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in the chances of treatment and prevention of complications.
