Some people think that liver problems are only caused by excessive drinking and this is not the truth; There can be various reasons that can lead to liver damage and serious infections. It can also be due to eating habits, lifestyle changes, fatty liver, or other causes as well. Most people discover liver damage only at a stage that may require serious treatment or surgery. Hence, to avoid this condition, be aware of the signs and symptoms of liver damage that can lead to serious problems, according to Dr. Akash Malhotra, a hematology surgeon at Fuzart Healthcare, Bangalore.
Depending on the location, there can be different symptoms of liver damage ranging from mild to severe. The obvious symptoms that help identify liver damage can be summarized as follows:
1. Bad breath
In the event of liver damage or liver-related dysfunction, mouth odor changes. People with liver damage may have a foul smell coming out of their mouths often. It smells like rotten onions or fish. This is caused by an excess of ammonia produced by the body, which is deposited by enzymes produced by the liver. Hence, if there is a persistent bad smell from your mouth, you should have a medical examination.
2. Severe digestive problems
Severe digestive problems are directly related to liver damage and dysfunction. This is because the liver accumulates fat, and when there is damage due to it, you cannot even properly digest water. Digestive problems can vary from one individual to another. But it is a serious symptom that can take the worst cases if treatment is not provided on time. Even if you’re constantly experiencing minor digestive issues over the course of a few days, it might be a sign of liver damage.
3. Dark circles and tired eyes
Liver dysfunction and damage are associated with skin damage and body fatigue. If the skin under your eyes is very thin, it might be a sign of liver damage and related problems. It is also an easy way to find out if there is any damage to the liver before a proper diagnosis is made in the hospital.
4. Skin spots and discoloration
Skin discoloration occurs when you have a liver problem. It might be due to fatty liver, hepatitis, or damage to the liver. In some cases skin pigmentation is also affected. This means that you may see some white spots on your skin. These are usually signs of liver damage and are called liver spots. White spots in particular should not be avoided as they may be linked to a serious liver disorder.
5. Dark urine and stools
Stool formation and urination are closely related to the state of the liver and digestive system. If the urine becomes dark or brown in color, this may be a symptom of dehydration. Dehydration occurs due to liver damage, where liver function is affected, resulting in damage to the liver. If you regularly have dark urine and dark stools, get yourself checked for liver disease and damage.
6. Yellow eyes
Yellow eyes are a symptom of jaundice, which is also a liver disease. If you notice that your eye color turns yellow for 2-3 days, see a doctor. Yellowing of the eyes and nails is a symptom of hepatitis and needs immediate treatment. Sometimes jaundice can lead to serious health complications.
7. Flatulence
Liver damage can also cause abdominal swelling due to infection and damage. This is a serious sign that must be treated immediately to avoid health complications. A lump in the abdomen means that the liver is enlarged due to some kind of malfunction. As a result, the abdomen may begin to protrude and you may experience abnormal irritation.
8. A bitter taste in the mouth
It is a different sign related to liver damage. The bitter metal taste in the mouth is linked to problems with the liver’s secretion of enzymes. If you have that metallic and bitter taste most of the time, it may be due to bile that comes into your mouth instead of mixing with food to aid digestion. Hence digestion may also be affected due to liver problems.
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