Spotting the signs of liver disease early is crucial, as an early diagnosis means that the liver can be expected to fully recover on its own. Liver damage can be caused by heredity, toxicity (e.g., chemicals or viruses) and diseases such as cirrhosis. It is therefore important to be vigilant and to spot suspicious symptoms in time, as the liver helps the body to digest food, absorb nutrients and eliminate toxins. Without this organ, people simply cannot live.
Causes of liver damage
Liver damage usually occurs gradually over many years and the main cause of liver disease is long-term alcohol consumption. Other causes of liver damage include:
- Various viruses, including hepatitis
- Poor nutrition
- Reaction to certain medications
- Exposure to chemicals
- Hereditary disorders of iron and copper metabolism
- Diseases such as liver cancer and fatty liver disease
- Having diabetes
- Smoking dramatically increases the risk of not only lung cancer but also liver cancer
- Certain chemotherapy drugs can damage liver cells
- Excessive intake of vitamin A
- Pro-longed use of anabolic steroids. We recommend using safer supplement alternatives such as ligandrol lgd-4033
5 early symptoms of liver damage
Identifying the early signs of liver damage is crucial for timely intervention. Below we are going to explore key symptoms that may indicate potential liver issues. Let’s take a look.
Dark yellow urine
The colour of the urine changes due to increased bile pigment in the body, which the damaged liver can no longer remove. If you are drinking enough fluids and your urine is still dark yellow, make sure you tell your doctor(s).
Bloated abdomen
Ascites, a condition characterized by fluid accumulation in the abdomen, is a common consequence of cirrhosis. This fluid retention can cause the abdomen to appear distended, resembling the shape of a pregnant woman. Additionally, swelling in the ankles may also be observed as a result of this fluid imbalance.
Diarrhoea, constipation or bleeding
Liver disease often manifests in noticeable changes to bowel movements, including diarrhea, constipation, discolored stools, or the presence of blood. These alterations in the gastrointestinal system can serve as warning signs of potential liver damage, highlighting the importance of seeking medical evaluation and care.
Reflux (GERD)
Reflux, commonly known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), manifests as frequent heartburn, along with potential indigestion and vomiting. These symptoms serve as warning signs that something is amiss, necessitating comprehensive diagnostic tests to identify the underlying cause.
Jaundice
Yellowing of the skin all over the body, and sometimes also of the nails and eyes. This is usually caused by elevated levels of bilirubin, a bile pigment. Bile is produced and secreted by the liver, but if the liver does not remove toxins from the body, bilirubin starts to build up in the blood, causing discolouration.
