It is essential to be aware of the various signs and symptoms of liver disease, as prompt treatment can help prevent irreversible damage to the organ.
Although jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin and eyes, is a common symptom, it often occurs in the later stages of liver disease. Fortunately, there are other signs and symptoms that can indicate the onset of the disease.
Warning
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
The author is not a doctor and does not recommend self-medication or using unproven treatment methods. I remind you that contacting a doctor and following the recommendations of evidence-based medicine are the only correct solution in the fight against various diseases.
Additional sources of information used to write the article will be indicated in the pinned comment. [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], [6]
1. Menstrual cycle
The liver plays a key role in controlling the levels of various hormones, including estrogen and progesterone. When the liver is damaged over time, it can lead to an imbalance of these hormones. This can result in menstrual irregularities, such as missed periods or excessive bleeding.
2. Decreased libido
Liver disease can have a negative impact on libido and erectile function in men. Just as women with menstrual problems have hormone metabolism problems, men with liver disease also have a metabolic disorder that leads to low testosterone levels, a condition known as hypogonadism.
Testosterone is a male sex hormone that is essential for the normal functioning of the reproductive system. It is responsible for sexual desire, erection, and ejaculation. Hypogonadism in men causes symptoms such as testicular atrophy, infertility, and various sexual disorders, including decreased libido and impotence.
3. Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a medical term that describes excessive breast (mammary) growth in men. It often occurs in patients with liver disease.
The adrenal glands produce and secrete a special hormone called androstenedione, which is then converted to estrogen in peripheral tissues such as the testicles, brain, fat, skin, and bone. If the liver cannot effectively remove excess estrogen from the body, its levels in the blood can increase. This buildup of estrogen, combined with hypogonadism, can lead to breast enlargement in men, which is the cause of gynecomastia.
4. Redness of the palms
Another condition that can be associated with hormonal imbalance due to liver problems is palmar erythema. It manifests itself in reddening of the palms. With this disease, the hands become uniformly red, but the color is usually pale and does not cause painful or itchy sensations.
5. Bruises easily
If you notice that you are bruising more often, it could be a sign of liver disease. The liver is a vital organ that is responsible for producing proteins in the blood and controls the metabolism of millions of amino acid molecules every day.
In liver disease, the formation of these proteins, including clotting factors, can be disrupted. This, in turn, means that even minor injuries can cause bleeding and frequent bruising.
6. Spider angioma
Liver damage can cause specific skin rashes known as arachnoid angiomas. These lesions have a characteristic appearance: a red dot in the center, with reddish extensions resembling a web radiating outward from it. Sometimes these rashes can bleed.
Spider angiomas are clusters of swollen blood vessels that are close to the surface of the skin. They are caused by hormonal imbalances, particularly estrogen imbalances.
Spider angiomas can also appear in healthy people, but if you notice several of these rashes on your body, this is a serious reason to see a doctor.
7. Curling of fingers
Another sign of liver disease can be curled fingers. Fingertips may swell, become warm, and even discolored, and nails may curl downward. However, liver problems are not the only thing that can cause curled fingers.
This symptom can also be associated with other diseases such as lung disease, cardiovascular disease and inflammatory bowel disease. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor to determine the exact cause of this phenomenon and begin appropriate treatment.
8. Dupuytren's disease
Dupuytren's disease is another manifestation of liver problems. In this disease, the connective tissue under the skin on the palms thickens, forming a dense band that seems to pull the fingers to the palm. As a result, the affected fingers cannot be fully straightened.
9. Low platelet count
Low platelet count is a common hematological disorder that is associated with liver dysfunction. The portal vein is the main vessel that supplies blood to the liver. When the liver is damaged, the pressure in this vein can increase, leading to portal hypertension. This condition causes the spleen to enlarge, which in turn sequesters platelets, reducing their number.
Liver disease can also lead to other hematological disorders, such as anemia and low white blood cell counts.
If you notice any symptoms of liver disease, including fatigue, abdominal pain, or jaundice, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor can perform tests to evaluate your liver function and determine the best course of treatment.
Conclusion
It is important to know the symptoms and signs of liver disease to maintain health and avoid serious complications. At the first alarming symptoms, you should consult a doctor. This will significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
It should be remembered that early symptoms may signal the development of pathologies that have not yet reached a critical stage. Therefore, it is so important to take care of your health, undergo regular medical examinations and monitor your condition.
Additional sources of information used to write this article:
[1] Liver problems - Symptoms and causes
[2] Liver Disease: Signs & Symptoms, Causes, Stages, Treatment
[3] Signs and symptoms of liver damage
[5] Liver Disease Can Happen Silently—Learn the Early Warning Signs
[6] Information on Liver Failure Dupuytren's contracture, chronic liver disease and IgA immune complexes - PubMed
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