Named non-obvious signs of liver problems

Chronic fatigue and bloating may be the first signals that the liver is not coping with its work of removing toxins. This was reported by gastroenterologist Edgmar Parra from the University of Antioquia in an interview with Vanitatis.

The liver performs more than 500 important functions - from filtering blood to synthesizing proteins and processing cholesterol. But with constant overload caused by harmful habits, infections, or metabolic disorders, its tissues begin to deteriorate. This can lead to fibrosis and, over time, to cirrhosis - a chronic and often irreversible disease.

Among the main causes of cirrhosis are viral hepatitis B and C, alcohol abuse, fatty liver disease, as well as genetic and autoimmune disorders.

Typical signs of liver problems are considered to be yellowing of the skin and eyes, darkening of urine, and light-colored stool. But Dr. Parra warns: less obvious symptoms, such as constant fatigue and bloating, can also indicate liver pathologies. The latter may be associated with ascites - the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity due to cirrhosis.

The doctor emphasized the importance of early detection of disorders and recommended consulting a specialist at the first alarming signs, especially if there are risk factors: chronic diseases, viral infections, or alcohol dependence.