What are the symptoms of liver diseases?

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The liver is one of the most vital organs of the body, which plays a key role in detoxification, food metabolism and energy storage. However, most of us do not pay much attention to the health of this organ until it has a problem. Liver problems may be asymptomatic at first, but over time, subtle signs appear in the body that, if ignored, can lead to serious diseases and even liver failure. Knowing the warning signs of liver problems is an important step in the prevention and early diagnosis of diseases related to this organ. In this article, we will examine the most important symptoms that the body shows in the event of liver dysfunction.

Why is liver health important?

The liver is one of the largest and most vital organs of the human body, which is responsible for more than 500 different functions. This organ is located on the right side of the abdomen, under the chest, and its main role is to purify the blood from toxins, chemicals and waste materials. Any substance that enters the body through food, medicine, or drink must first pass through the liver filter to remove harmful substances from it. Liver health is essential for maintaining the immune system, digestion, and body metabolism. This organ is responsible for breaking down fats, converting and storing excess sugar into glycogen, making vital proteins, and helping to digest fats by producing bile. In fact, if the liver does not function properly, the body gradually accumulates toxins and malfunctions of other organs. On the other hand, liver problems such as fatty liver, hepatitis, or liver cirrhosis can begin without obvious symptoms, but if neglected, lead to complete liver failure and serious risks to a person's life. For this reason, it is very important to take care of liver health through healthy nutrition, avoiding alcohol, weight control and periodic tests.

Where is liver pain and how does it feel?

The liver is located in the upper right side of the abdomen, just below the chest and behind the lower right ribs. For this reason, pain caused by liver problems is usually felt in this area. This pain may appear as a mild to severe feeling of heaviness, pressure, or shooting.

In some cases, liver pain may spread to the back, right shoulder, or even the middle part of the abdomen. Sometimes people mistakenly confuse this pain with stomach pain or digestive problems, while its main source is the liver.

The severity and type of pain varies depending on the type of disease. For example:

• 🔹 In fatty liver, there is usually a feeling of heaviness or mild discomfort in the right side of the abdomen.
• 🔹 In inflammation or infection of the liver (hepatitis), the pain may be vague or throbbing.
• 🔹 In cirrhosis or liver enlargement, the pain may be accompanied by abdominal swelling and a feeling of fullness.

If this pain It is accompanied by symptoms such as yellowing of the skin and eyes, nausea, extreme fatigue or change in the color of urine, you should definitely see a doctor, because it can be a sign of serious liver disease.

What are the types of liver diseases?

The liver may be damaged for various reasons such as an unhealthy lifestyle, viral infections, alcohol consumption or certain medications. Liver diseases are usually asymptomatic at first, but over time they can disrupt the vital functions of this organ. Familiarity with the types of liver diseases will help you recognize the warning signs early and prevent more serious problems such as cirrhosis or liver failure.

• 🟢 Fatty liver: Accumulation of fat in liver cells due to obesity, diabetes or alcohol consumption.
• 🟢 Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver caused by viruses, drugs or the body's autoimmune reaction.
• 🟢 Cirrhosis Liver : Chronic damage and replacement of healthy liver tissue with scarred or fibrotic tissue.
• 🟢 Liver failure : Acute or chronic complete failure of liver function.
• 🟢 Liver cancer: Abnormal growth of liver cells, usually as a result of chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis.
• 🟢 Genetic liver diseases: such as Wilson's disease (copper accumulation) or hemochromatosis (accumulation of iron) which cause cell damage.

Finally, it should be said that liver diseases can usually be controlled or treated if they are detected in the early stages. Most liver problems are caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, high-fat diet, alcohol consumption, or inactivity, and they can be prevented by correcting these habits. Paying attention to warning signs, performing periodic tests and visiting a gastroenterologist in case of any pain or unusual changes are the best ways to maintain the health of this vital organ. The health of the liver means the health of the whole body, so taking care of it should be one of the main priorities of every person.

What does an unhealthy liver mean?

An unhealthy liver is a condition in which the normal function of this important organ is disturbed. This disorder may occur due to fat accumulation (fatty liver), inflammation (hepatitis), tissue scarring (cirrhosis), infection, or even complete failure. In such a situation, the liver can no longer perform its vital functions properly; such as purifying toxins, regulating blood sugar, or producing bile. These disorders may begin slowly and without symptoms, but if neglected, they can lead to serious and even life-threatening problems.

Symptoms of liver diseases

Liver diseases are usually asymptomatic in the early stages, but as the disease progresses, the body gradually shows warning signs. These symptoms are the result of the liver's inability to clear toxins and perform its vital functions. Timely recognition of the symptoms of liver diseases helps to start treatment faster and prevent the development of serious injuries.

• 🟢 Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice): is one of the most common symptoms of liver dysfunction, which is caused by an increase in bilirubin in the blood.
• 🟢 Excessive fatigue and general weakness: due to a decrease in the ability of the liver to purify toxins and produce Energy.
• 🟢 Change in color of urine and feces: Dark urine and colorless or gray feces can be a sign of liver disease.
• 🟢 Pain or heaviness in the upper right side of the abdomen: The location of the liver, which is usually caused by inflammation or enlargement. Food.
• 🟢 Itching of the skin without a specific cause: caused by the accumulation of bile substances in the blood.
• 🟢 Swelling of the abdomen and legs (ascites and edema): seen in the advanced stages of liver diseases.
• 🟢 Easy bruising or bleeding: due to a decrease in the production of coagulation factors by the liver.
• 🟢 Disturbance in concentration, confusion or Forgetfulness: the result of the increase of toxic substances in the blood and its effect on the brain (hepatic encephalopathy).

What is liver pain?

Liver pain is usually felt as a feeling of heaviness, pressure or discomfort in the right and upper part of the abdomen, under the ribs. This pain may be slow, dull or shooting and sometimes it extends to the back or right shoulder. Unlike other abdominal pains, liver pain is often accompanied by bloating, fullness, or nausea and in some cases is aggravated by touching the area or after eating fatty foods. If you experience such pain continuously or with other symptoms such as yellow skin or severe fatigue, you should see a doctor immediately.

What causes liver diseases?

Liver diseases are usually caused by a combination of lifestyle factors, viral infections, drug or chemical intake, and even genetic factors. The liver is constantly in charge of purifying the blood and processing food, so it is in direct contact with toxins, fats and viruses. When excessive pressure is applied to this organ or liver cells are damaged, its normal function is gradually disrupted and the ground for disease is created.

• 🟢 High consumption of alcohol: One of the main factors in the destruction of liver cells and the development of cirrhosis or alcoholic fatty liver.
• 🟢 Viral infections (hepatitis A, B and C): cause inflammation. and destruction of liver cells in the short term or chronically.
• 🟢 Unhealthy nutrition and high fat: High-calorie and high-fat diets lead to the accumulation of fat in the liver and the occurrence of non-alcoholic fatty liver.
• 🟢 Obesity and diabetes: two important factors in creating insulin resistance and increasing fat in the liver.
• 🟢 Independent consumption Medicines and supplements: Some medicines, such as acetaminophen in high doses, can damage the liver.
• 🟢 Genetic diseases: such as Wilson's disease (accumulation of copper) and hemochromatosis (accumulation of iron), which cause gradual damage to liver cells.
• 🟢 Environmental toxins and chemicals: Prolonged contact with some industrial toxins or toxic fungi can impair liver function.
• 🟢 Autoimmune diseases: In some cases, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the liver tissue and causes its inflammation.

In general, most liver diseases are the result of an unhealthy lifestyle and wrong daily habits. Alcohol consumption, high-fat diet, inactivity and neglecting the general health of the body can gradually damage this vital organ. By modifying the diet, avoiding arbitrary use of drugs and regular check-ups, more liver problems can be prevented. Let's not forget that a healthy liver is the basis of the health of the whole body and taking care of it means increasing energy, vitality and longer life.

Fatty liver disease (the most common liver disease)

Fatty liver is one of the most common liver diseases in the world and especially in Iran. This disease occurs when a large amount of fat accumulates in the liver cells. In a normal state, the presence of a small amount of fat in the liver is normal, but when its amount exceeds 5 to 10% of the liver's weight, its normal function is disrupted. Disease Name Fatty Liver Disease Types of Disease 1. Non-alcoholic fatty liver 2. Alcoholic fatty livermain causeaccumulation of fat in liver cells due to unhealthy diet, obesity, diabetes or alcohol consumptioncommon symptomsfatigue, pain in the right side of the abdomen, nausea, anorexia, overweight, yellow skin in advanced stagesrisk factorsobesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, inactivity, alcohol consumption, use of certain drugspossible side effects liver inflammation (steatohepatitis), fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver failureprevention methodshealthy diet, regular exercise, weight and blood sugar control, avoiding alcohol and arbitrary drugsrecommended treatments lifestyle modification, gradual weight loss, consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, regular visits to the doctor

Fatty liver is one of the diseases that progress silently and in the early stages it is usually asymptomatic. But it can be controlled and even treated by following a balanced diet, weight loss, regular physical activity and avoiding alcohol and high-fat foods. Early detection through blood tests and ultrasound plays an important role in preventing the progression of the disease. Taking care of the liver means taking care of the health of the whole body.

Summary

The liver is one of the most vital organs in the body, whose health has a direct role in the functioning of all organs. Most liver diseases begin slowly and without symptoms, but if detected early, they are completely manageable and treatable. Following a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding alcohol or unnecessary drugs is the best way to protect this valuable organ. Let's not forget that a healthy liver means a healthy and energetic body; So let's make taking care of it a daily habit in order to enjoy years of health and vitality.

Frequently asked questions

It can be detected by doing a blood test (checking liver enzymes) and abdominal ultrasound.

Yes, in the early stages, it can often be controlled and improved by lifestyle changes and drug treatment. are.

In some cases, yes; Especially if it is accompanied by jaundice or fatigue, it needs a medical examination.

Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish and sufficient water consumption are recommended for liver health.

In the early stages, no, but if neglected, it may turn into inflammation, fibrosis or cirrhosis.

Alcohol, fatty and fried foods, obesity, diabetes and arbitrary use of drugs.

With a healthy diet, regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and periodic checkups.

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