The liver is one of the most critical organs in our body, responsible for several essential functions that play an indispensable role in overall well-being, from facilitating detoxification and digestion to supporting immunity and metabolism. To put its importance into perspective, according to Michigan Medicine, the liver performs over 500 functions to keep the body healthy.
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So, understanding the signs of a deteriorating liver is vital, as detecting it early also improves the treatment outcomes. Here's the catch, the signs may show up differently in men and women. HT Lifestyle spoke to Dr Swati Raju, senior consultant - medical gastroenterology, hepatology and transplant hepatology at Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, Chennai, about the common symptoms in women that could actually signal liver trouble.
Common misconception
Usually, there is a belief that men are more likely to suffer from liver disease, but this does not rule out the vulnerability of women. "It is a common misconception that women do not suffer from liver diseases as much as men. Some are more common in women due to hormonal, metabolic, or autoimmune factors," Dr Raju cautioned. So, what kind of liver disease is commonly seen in women? The hepatologist outlined conditions such as metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, alcohol-related fatty liver disease, autoimmune liver disease, and hepatitis virus-related liver disease.
Signs of liver damage
Liver damage does not always announce itself loudly. In the beginning, it may present through subtle signs or vague changes that can easily overlap with lifestyle problems such as stress, sleep deprivation or dehydration. This is why it is important to pay close attention to symptoms that persist or feel weirdly unusual, as they may signal an underlying liver disease. Here are some of the signs the doctor shared:
• Persistent fatigue
• Yellowing of eyes/skin
• Unexplained itching
• Swelling in legs or abdomen
• Dark urine or pale stools
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.