Your liver is one of the most important organs of the body. It filters toxins, processes nutrients, and keeps digestion smooth. But when the liver is under stress or getting damaged, it gives early signals. Identifying these signs in time can prevent serious diseases like fatty liver, hepatitis, cirrhosis—even liver failure.
Below are the 8 major warning signs you should never ignore:
1. Constant Fatigue and Weakness
If you feel tired all the time—even after rest—it may be because the liver is unable to clear toxins. When toxins remain in the blood, they drain your energy and affect brain function.
2. Yellowing of Eyes and Skin (Jaundice)
This is the most common sign of liver trouble.
When bilirubin (a yellow pigment) increases due to a weak liver, your:
- eyes become yellow,
- skin turns pale yellow,
- urine becomes dark.
Immediate medical attention is needed.
3. Pain or Heaviness on the Right Side of the Stomach
The liver is located on the right side.
When it becomes swollen due to inflammation or fat accumulation, you may feel:
- a sharp pain
- dull heavy pressure
- discomfort after eating oily food
This can be an early sign of fatty liver or hepatitis.
4. Frequent Indigestion, Gas & Nausea
If your liver is weak, digestion slows down. You may experience:
- nausea
- bloating
- excessive burping
- loss of appetite
This often happens because the liver can’t produce enough digestive enzymes or bile.
5. Sudden Weight Loss or Weight Gain
- Sudden weight gain, especially belly fat → can indicate fatty liver.
- Unexplained weight loss → may occur in advanced liver damage when nutrient absorption is affected.
6. Dark Urine & Pale Stool
Changes in urine and stool color reflect liver health:
- Dark brown urine → high bilirubin
- Pale or clay-colored stool → low bile production
Both demand evaluation.
7. Swelling in Legs, Ankles, or Abdomen
Liver damage reduces protein production, leading to fluid buildup. This causes:
- swollen legs
- puffy ankles
- fluid-filled abdomen (ascites)
This is a late-stage warning sign.
8. Skin Itching or Easy Bruising
A weak liver can’t filter toxins or produce clotting proteins. You might notice:
- itchy skin without rash
- bruises appearing easily
- slow clotting of wounds
How to Protect Your Liver?
- Limit alcohol
- Avoid excessive painkillers
- Eat high-fibre foods
- Reduce sugar & refined carbs
- Exercise regularly
- Drink plenty of water
- Get liver function tests (LFT) if symptoms appear
