Did you know that over 100 million[i] in the U.S. live with some form of liver disease? Conditions such as non-alcohol-related fatty liver disease[ii] (NAFD) have become very common because issues like high obesity rates are prevalent today.
Sadly, people often don’t realize they have a liver complication until it has progressed and caused extensive damage. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With the symptoms outlined in this article, you can detect this problem as early as possible.
Common Symptoms of Liver Disease
Unfortunately, discernible symptoms don’t always manifest in liver disease patients. But if they do in your case, you will likely notice these issues:
-Chronic fatigue
-Jaundice (yellowish skin and eyes)
-Nausea
-Appetite loss
-Unexplained weight loss
-Itchy skin
-Edema (swollen ankles and legs)
-Primary Liver Disease Stages
There are various types of liver diseases. The most common include non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis of the liver. These conditions often progress through the stages outlined below.
Stage 1: Inflammation
Liver disease starts with inflammation. This problem can occur when your immune system reacts with a foreign, harmful substance, like a toxin. Viruses and parasites in bodily fluids, contaminated food, etc., can also infect your organ and lead to inflammation.
When inflammation sets in, your liver becomes inflamed or swollen. As this condition worsens, you will likely notice signs like abdominal pain and nausea. Luckily, you can alleviate liver inflammation through lifestyle changes. For instance, you can get more rest, increase fluid intake, and stop excessive alcohol use.
Stage 2: Fibrosis
If you don’t make lifestyle changes or seek treatment for an inflamed liver, the problem will progress and become chronic. And chronic liver inflammation is among the top causes of fibrosis.
In simple terms, fibrosis occurs when inflammation encourages the buildup of excessive scar tissue in your liver. This issue can also arise from long-lasting or extensive organ injuries, chronic Hepatitis C infection, and regular alcohol abuse.
Numerous symptoms indicate you are a potential victim of liver fibrosis. These include rapid weight loss, unexplained exhaustion, and reduced appetite. A doctor can use blood tests to check if you have this problem.
Medical professionals may recommend medications and lifestyle changes to treat or reverse fibrosis.
Stage 3: Cirrhosis
Sadly, sometimes liver fibrosis can remain undetected, which may prevent you from seeking treatment as early as possible. When that happens, the issues may progress to cirrhosis.
Liver cirrhosis manifests when your organ has excessive scar tissue and is permanently damaged. Remember, scar tissue blocks blood flow in your liver and undermines your organ’s ability to work effectively. That is why you should see a specialist immediately if you see any signs of fibrosis.
Cirrhosis is irreversible. But treatment can slow its progression and alleviate symptoms. You should also avoid alcohol consumption, stick to low-sodium diets, and use over-the-counter medications cautiously to avoid additional liver damage.
Stage 4: End-stage liver disease (ESLD)
End-stage liver disease or chronic liver failure is the final stage. It is where your organ shuts downs and stops all functions. Common symptoms of ESLD include severely itchy skin, jaundice, and confusion or disorientation.
At this stage, you need treatment to manage liver disease. Medical experts can try to cleanse your body with a laxative known as lactulose and recommend antibiotics if necessary. But, the best solution for end-stage liver disease is an organ transplant.
If left untreated, ESLD can lead to complications like advanced edema, neurological disorders like hepatic encephalopathy, and, eventually, death.
Sources
[i] https://liverfoundation.org/about-your-liver/facts-about-liver-disease/how-many-people-have-liver-disease/#:~:text=More%20than%20100%20million%20people,not%20know%20they%20have%20it.
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