The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous functions in the body, including detoxification, metabolism, and nutrient storage. When the liver is not functioning properly, it can lead to various health issues. In this article, we will discuss 20 signs that indicate your liver may not be healthy.
Signs of an Unhealthy Liver:
1. Loss of appetite: A common sign of liver damage is a decrease in appetite.
2. Sleep disturbances: Liver cirrhosis can disrupt sleep patterns.
3. Memory problems: Liver failure can result in the buildup of toxins in the brain, leading to memory loss.
4. Chronic fatigue: Liver disease can cause persistent tiredness and lack of energy.
5. Itchy skin: Itchy skin can be a symptom of liver conditions such as primary biliary cholangitis or cirrhosis.
6. Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice): Jaundice occurs when bilirubin builds up in the body, causing yellowing of the eyes and skin.
7. Sudden weight gain: Liver cirrhosis can lead to fluid retention and unexplained weight gain.
8. Unexpected weight loss: Weight loss can be a sign of liver damage, particularly in cases of hepatitis C.
9. Red palms: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can cause redness in the palms.
10. Enlarged breasts in men: Excess breast tissue growth, known as gynecomastia, can occur due to hormonal imbalances caused by liver disease.
11. Changes in personality: Hepatic encephalopathy, a condition associated with liver failure, can cause alterations in behavior and personality.
12. Easy bruising: Liver disease can lead to easy bruising and increased sensitivity to bruising.
13. Swelling of legs or ankles: Liver disease can cause fluid retention, leading to swelling in the legs and ankles.
14. Confusion: Hepatic encephalopathy can result in confusion and difficulty understanding things.
15. Trouble focusing: Liver dysfunction can affect concentration and make it challenging to focus.
16. Aches and pains: Liver conditions like primary biliary cholangitis can cause muscle, joint, or bone pain.
17. Abdominal bloating: Ascites, the buildup of fluid in the abdomen, can cause bloating.
18. Dark urine: Dark urine can be a sign of liver damage, as bilirubin can change the color of urine.
19. Chills: Cholestasis during liver disease can cause chronic chills.
20. Dry eyes or mouth: Dry eyes and mouth can be early symptoms of liver disease, particularly primary biliary cholangitis.