Liver disease has become a common problem affecting a large portion of the UK population, producing very few symptoms to signal trouble.
The liver plays a critical role in the body and is involved in more than 500 essential metabolic processes.
For instance, all the nutrients we get from food are sent to the liver for processing. When the body carries too much excess fat or alcohol intake increases, the organ can become impaired.
The most severe form of liver damage, known medically as cirrhosis, is characterised by serious complications.
However, there may be earlier signs warning that the liver is in trouble, a medical student who goes by Dr Mehss, explained on her TikTok page.
She told viewers: “Liver disease doesn’t always cause noticeable signs and symptoms."
The clip states that when signs and symptoms of liver disease do occur, they may include:
- Skin and eyes that appear yellowish
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Itchy skin
- Dark-coloured urine
- Pale-coloured stool
- Chronic fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- A tendency to bruise easily
When to see a doctor
“Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any persistent signs or symptoms that worry you,” warned Dr Mehss.
“Seek immediate medical attention if you have abdominal pain that is so severe you can’t stay still.”
The symptoms above—such as jaundice—occur when the liver becomes overwhelmed and is unable to perform its functions normally.
This causes bilirubin to spill out of the liver and into the bloodstream, a process responsible for the yellowing of the skin.
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Pale stool could indicate issues with the liver
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Some types of liver disease are reversible in the early stages, but in the final stage of cirrhosis, scarring of the organ has already occurred.
The NHS notes: “Even at this stage, there may be any obvious symptoms.
“It’s generally not reversible, but stopping drinking alcohol immediately can prevent further damage and significantly increase your life expectancy.”
Emphasising fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats, can also support healthy liver function and prevent issues down the line.
