All these organs work in complete coordination to digest, absorb and process food. Other important components of the liver include the intrahepatic ducts that are located inside the liver and extrahepatic ducts that are on the outside.Īnatomically, the liver is positioned below the gallbladder along with parts of the pancreas and intestines. Bile is an important digestive juice secreted by the liver. The right lobe is larger than the left lobe and both lobes are separated by a band of tissue that keeps it connected to the diaphragm.Ī system of tubes called the biliary tree that runs through the liver collects bile and drains it into the gallbladder or the intestine. It is in the shape of a triangle and consists of 2 lobes. The liver is protected against external injuries by a bony rib cage. It is a reddish-brown organ with a rubbery texture and weighs around 3 pounds. Call (925) 350-4044 to schedule an appointment today.The liver is the second largest organ in the human body which is present on the right side of the abdomen. At BASS Medical Group, your care is our top priority. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to see a doctor to discuss the possibility of liver disease.
This is often accompanied by portal hypertension and fluid retention in the lower extremities. It can be an early sign of liver disease, as it happens when there is either damage to the liver or liver cirrhosis. Ascites means you have a buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Abdominal Pain and SwellingĮxperiencing pain or abnormal bloating in the abdomen can be an indicator of ascites and a malfunctioning liver. While using lotion may cause momentary relief, the dermatological symptoms will not resolve until you receive care for the liver problems. It is also common to experience bruising and an increase in vein visibility. Itchy SkinĪn early liver disease symptom can be itchy, flaking skin. However, having an upset stomach is common in many other conditions, such as pregnancy and food poisoning. It can also be due to changes in digestion and ongoing metabolism. It is very likely that you will experience a perpetual upset stomach with liver disease due to the liver’s decreased ability to rid your body of toxins. When your food stops being properly digested, it can cause a lack of an appetite and extreme weight loss. This occurs because the liver stops producing bile that helps to digest fat. The loss of an appetite is very common with liver disease. However, if it is becoming a regular occurrence, you should consider the possibility of liver disease. If this happens occasionally, it is not cause for concern. The stool may range in color from pale yellow, gray, or clay colored. Pale Stool Colorĭue to the lack of bile being produced in your liver, your stool may become pale in color. Certain medications, an excess of vitamin B, UTIs, enzyme definices, or kidney abnormalities can all cause alterations to the color of your urine. The urine color may range from brown, amber, or even orange due to the buildup of bilirubin. If you are drinking an adequate amount of water but you are still experiencing dark colored urine, it may be an early indicator of liver disease. Jaundice can also be the sign of a gallbladder or pancreas issue, so it’s important to seek medical attention the moment you notice this symptom. Bilirubin builds up when the liver is unable to break down old red blood cells. Jaundice is caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream and bodily tissue that would normally be removed by the liver. It can also appear in the fingernails and tongue.
Liver issues skin#
Yellowing of the skin and eyes, also known as jaundice, is one of the most well known liver disease symptoms.
What are the symptoms of liver disease? Jaundice Catching liver disease early is your best line of defense. Conditions that harm the liver can cause cirrhosis (scarring) which can lead to liver failure, a life threatening condition. Liver disease can be genetic or caused by viruses, alcohol or even obesity. Because of the importance of your liver, it’s imperative to recognize the early symptoms of liver disease. About the size of a football, the liver is essential for the digestion process and ridding your body of toxic materials. The liver is an organ that sits right under your ribcage.