Yellowing Sclera and Chronic Fatigue: 5 Signs Your Liver May Be in Danger

Liver health issues can be hard to diagnose in time, but recognizing them can prevent life-threatening liver diseases. Discover five signs indicating your liver may need medical attention:

First Sign - Yellow Tint in the Sclera

A yellow tint in the sclera often indicates liver health or functional issues. The liver is responsible for removing a substance called bilirubin, which causes the yellow color. If the liver does not function properly, the bilirubin 'takes over,' coloring everything yellow—mainly the eyes, but it can also spread to other parts of the body (jaundice). Jaundice is not a disease but rather a sign of bilirubin malfunction.

Second Sign - Constant Chronic Fatigue

Chronic fatigue and exhaustion may indicate liver weakness and should be addressed if they occur. Studies in liver health found a direct link between chronic fatigue and developing liver damage, possibly caused by extreme changes in brain chemical and hormone balance. When the liver is damaged, crucial neurotransmitters such as serotonin are affected, impacting mental and physical function.

Third Sign - Swelling in the Right Side of the Abdomen

Frequent swelling and pain in the upper right abdomen can indicate issues with blood vessels surrounding the liver. Those with liver diseases often report this type of swelling due to fluid accumulation in the abdomen, known as 'ascites.'

This condition typically starts in the abdomen but can spread to the ankles, causing severe pain.

Fourth Sign - Confusion and Forgetfulness

Confusion and forgetfulness are common in older age but can be warning signs for those with impaired liver function. We tend to be indifferent when we lose items, but frequent occurrences may indicate toxin buildup in the liver (known medically as 'hepatic encephalopathy') and the liver's inability to eliminate them.

These toxins flow directly to the brain, disrupting cognitive function.

Fifth Sign - Frequent Nausea, Digestive Issues, and Heartburn

Frequent nausea, digestive issues, and heartburn may also appear when the liver is not doing its job. If you don't typically suffer from digestive problems, it's time for liver function tests to ensure everything is fine.