Written by Awes khan certified supplement specialist and nutritionist

What are common problems of the liver

What Are Common Problems of the Liver?

One of your body's most important organs is the liver. It is necessary for digestion, detoxification, metabolism, and the storage of important nutrients. But like any organ, the liver is not immune to disease or dysfunction.

Problems with the liver can develop slowly and silently, frequently going unnoticed until they become serious. Understanding the symptoms of common liver conditions and how to avoid them is crucial because of this.

1) Steatosis,

a disease of the liver, Fatty liver occurs when too much fat builds up in liver cells. Obesity, a poor diet, insulin resistance, and excessive alcohol consumption are frequently implicated.

Types:

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD):

This condition is most prevalent in individuals who consume little or no alcohol.

Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD):

Caused by heavy alcohol consumption.

Ailments: - Often none in early stages

- Tiredness - Discomfort in the upper right abdomen

If left untreated, fatty liver can progress to more serious conditions like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis.

2) Hepatitis

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by viral infections.

Types:

Hepatitis A:

Spread through contaminated food or water.

Hepatitis B & C:

Spread through blood or body fluids.

Hepatitis D & E:

Less common but still serious.

Ailments:

Jaundice, or eye and skin yellowing Nausea and vomiting

Fatigue

Abdominal pain

Dark urine

Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B.

3 )Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is the scarring of liver tissue due to long-term damage. It’s often the result of chronic alcohol use, hepatitis, or fatty liver disease.

Symptoms:

- Swelling in the legs or abdomen

- Easy bruising and bleeding

- Itchy skin

- Confusion or memory problems (due to toxin buildup)

- Hepatitis Cirrhosis can lead to liver failure, a life-threatening condition requiring urgent treatment or liver transplantation.

4) Liver Cancer

Liver cancer most commonly arises in people with chronic liver diseases like hepatitis or cirrhosis. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent type.

Ailments: - Unexplained weight loss

- Loss of appetite

- Upper abdominal pain

- Jaundice

- Fatigue

Early detection improves the chances of effective treatment.

5) Liver Infections and Autoimmune Diseases

The liver can also be affected by:

Liver abscesses (collections of pus due to infection)

Autoimmune hepatitis (the immune system attacks liver cells)

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangits (PSC) which affect bile ducts

"How to Maintain Liver Health" -

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

- Limit your alcohol intake. - Preserve a healthy weight - Exercise regularly

Avoid unnecessary medications or toxins

- Get hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines. - Maintain safe hygiene and refrain from sharing razors or needles.

Every day, your liver puts in a lot of effort to keep your body running smoothly. By understanding the common problems it can face—and how to prevent them—you can take better control of your health. Don’t ignore persistent fatigue, abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin. Early diagnosis can make a big difference.

Listen to your liver—it might be trying to tell you something.