Your liver can sometimes be under stress for a long time before symptoms appear, so persistent or worsening signs are worth taking seriously. A liver specialist is usually a Hepatologist or a gastroenterologist.
Common warning signs
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
This can happen when the liver cannot properly process bilirubin.
Swelling or pain in the upper right abdomen
Pain, fullness, or bloating near the liver area may signal inflammation or fluid buildup.
Dark urine or pale stools
- Urine that looks tea-colored
- Gray or clay-colored bowel movements
These can point to bile flow problems.
Severe tiredness or weakness
Persistent fatigue can occur with many conditions, including liver disease.
Easy bruising or bleeding
The liver helps make proteins involved in blood clotting.
Itchy skin
Unexplained widespread itching can happen when bile salts build up.
Nausea, poor appetite, or unexplained weight loss
Especially if symptoms continue for weeks.
Swelling in the legs or abdomen
Fluid retention can happen in advanced liver disease.
Seek urgent medical care if you have:
- Confusion or extreme sleepiness
- Vomiting blood
- Black, tarry stools
- Severe abdominal swelling
- High fever with jaundice
Common causes of liver problems
- Viral hepatitis
- Heavy alcohol use
- Fatty liver disease
- Certain medications or supplements
- Obesity and diabetes
Helpful information:
If you’re worried about symptoms, a doctor may order blood tests, an ultrasound, or other imaging to check liver function.
