Liver Disease Symptoms and Risk Factors

Kathmandu. The liver is an important organ of our body, which when damaged, the body's structure can collapse like a building. It does everything from digesting food to sending waste from the body. But due to people's diet and lifestyle, it can get damaged.

Liver-related problems starting from fatty liver can lead to liver cirrhosis or fibrosis. Therefore, early identification and treatment of liver-related diseases are especially important.

Feeling tired all the time
Feeling tired all the time can be a symptom of chronic liver disease. It can also be a sign of changes in brain signals, inflammation, muscle loss, sleep disturbances, anemia, or reduced exercise tolerance.

Loss of appetite and nausea
The liver produces bile juice, which helps in digesting food. If the liver stops working, bile production is hindered, which can also affect the digestive system. This can cause weakness in intestinal function, bloating, loss of taste, bloating, loss of appetite, and nausea.

Yellowing of eyes and skin
Jaundice or yellowing of eyes and skin is a sign of liver problems. When the liver cannot remove bilirubin properly, the skin and eyes start to look yellow. This can cause liver disease, excessive breakdown of red blood cells, and bile duct problems. If you have jaundice, consult a doctor.

Getting injured easily
The liver produces many proteins that are normally needed for blood clotting. It helps regulate platelet production. When the liver is not functioning properly, injuries and bruises become common. This can lead to frequent bleeding. Problems like nosebleeds, gum bleeding, and black stools can also occur.

Swelling in the abdomen or legs
Swelling in the legs and abdomen can be due to medical conditions. Scarring or damage to the liver can increase fluid retention, causing swelling in the legs and abdomen. Low albumin levels can also worsen the condition.

These people's livers get damaged quickly

• Obesity can be a cause of liver disease. Accumulation of fat around the abdomen can lead to Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD).
• Patients with type 2 diabetes may be at risk of liver disease.
• People who consume excessive alcohol may experience problems like alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver.
• A poor diet can also cause liver problems. Consumption of too many processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats can damage the liver.
• High cholesterol can also cause liver problems.