Liver disease is easy to manage when accurately diagnosed and caught early. Understand that there are different types of liver disease and different approaches to address each. Therefore, an accurate diagnosis is critical in understanding the right course of treatment. The liver disease Anchorage specialists can better assess your symptoms and understand your condition. However, you ought to be alert to identify the liver disease symptoms to understand when to seek an expert diagnosis. Knowing what to look for helps you take the right actions accordingly. The following tips can help you identify common signs of liver disease.
Notice Yellow Discoloration on your Eyes and Skin
One of the most identifiable signs of liver disease is a yellow color on the eyes and skin. The condition can identify cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, and alcoholic hepatitis. It is important to talk to your doctor as soon as you notice the yellow discoloration to understand the cause. Although it could indicate liver disease, it can also indicate other complications like over-breakdown of the red cells or bile duct obstruction.
Do Not Ignore Loss of Appetite
It is common to feel like you do not want food sometimes. However, not all appetite loss is normal. Complications like cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, and alcoholic hepatitis are known to cause a reduction in appetite and should not be overlooked. The loss of appetite comes among the initial symptoms of liver disease and may only begin as feeling so full after a small meal. Notice any unexpected weight loss when you lose your appetite, which leads to liver disease.
Notice Fatigue and Weakness
Most health complications are associated with weakness and fatigue. All liver disease types can be associated with a lack of strength and general fatigue. Therefore, do not assume feelings of weakness and weariness. Sometimes it can occur constantly or intermittently. So, you must pay attention and record any time you feel exhausted or weak.
Report Abdominal Pain or Swelling
Swelling and pain around the area below your rib cage can be associated with almost all types of liver disease. Contact your doctor if you feel tenderness or experience swelling, especially on the right side of the body. Your doctor can examine your situation to confirm or rule out liver disease. It could be due to liver swelling, which can cause shortness of breath. Seek expert help immediately or contact the emergency team when you experience breathing complications.
Note Nausea and Vomiting
Vomiting and nausea are common symptoms of multiple health complications. Some people tend to assume other causes of these symptoms, but it is always critical to seek an expert diagnosis. Talk to your doctor when you experience these symptoms, especially when accompanied by other definitive symptoms. Remember that nausea and vomiting do not indicate that you are suffering from a liver disease but can be the beginning. Cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, and alcoholic hepatitis cause vomiting and nausea.
Identify Fluid Retention and Swelling on Your Feet or Abdomen
Advanced cases of liver disease can cause water retention or swelling on your feet. A condition called edema. It is mainly associated with advanced cirrhosis, and you should take quick action. You might also notice fluid retention in your abdomen, indicating severe liver damage.
Different symptoms can indicate liver diseases, but only talking to the experts can give an accurate diagnosis. Do not hesitate to contact the Pioneer GI Clinic specialists if you have suspicious symptoms.