What Are the Most Common Liver Diseases and Their Symptoms?

The liver is a vital organ responsible for hundreds of essential functions, including detoxification, metabolism, and bile production. Unfortunately, liver diseases are increasingly common and can often go undetected until they become serious. Understanding the most common liver conditions and their symptoms is key to early diagnosis and treatment.

In this blog, we’ll explore the major types of liver diseases and the signs your body might show when your liver is in trouble.



1. Fatty Liver Disease (FLD)

a. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

NAFLD occurs when fat builds up in the liver of people who drink little to no alcohol. It is closely linked with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol.

b. Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

This condition results from excessive alcohol consumption over time, leading to fat accumulation in liver cells.

Common Symptoms:

  • Fatigue

  • Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Enlarged liver (hepatomegaly)

Note: Both types may be silent in early stages and only detectable through imaging or blood tests.

2. Hepatitis (A, B, C, D, E)

Hepatitis refers to liver inflammation, often caused by viruses. Types B and C are the most concerning due to their potential for chronic infection and liver damage.

Common Symptoms:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

  • Dark urine

  • Pale stools

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Joint pain

  • Fever (especially in Hepatitis A or E)

Vaccinations are available for Hepatitis A and B but not for C, D, or E.

3. Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is the scarring of liver tissue, often caused by long-term liver damage from conditions like hepatitis or alcoholism. It impairs the liver’s ability to function properly.

Common Symptoms:

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Fluid buildup in legs (edema) or abdomen (ascites)

  • Easy bruising and bleeding

  • Confusion or memory issues (hepatic encephalopathy)

  • Spider-like blood vessels on the skin

Cirrhosis can lead to liver failure or liver cancer if not managed.

4. Liver Cancer

Liver cancer often arises as a result of chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis. Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type.

Common Symptoms:

  • Sudden weight loss

  • Appetite loss

  • Abdominal pain or swelling

  • Yellowing of the skin and eyes

  • Enlarged liver or lump in the abdomen

Routine screening is crucial for those with chronic liver disease to detect cancer early.

5. Autoimmune Hepatitis

In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells, leading to inflammation and damage.

Common Symptoms:

  • Fatigue

  • Joint pain

  • Jaundice

  • Abdominal discomfort

  • Skin rashes

It is more common in women and can be managed with immunosuppressive medications.

6. Hemochromatosis

A genetic disorder causing the body to absorb too much iron from food, leading to iron buildup in the liver.

Common Symptoms:

  • Joint pain

  • Fatigue

  • Abdominal pain

  • Skin darkening

  • Liver enlargement

If untreated, it can lead to liver cirrhosis, diabetes, or heart issues.

7. Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)

These are chronic diseases affecting the bile ducts, leading to bile buildup and liver damage over time.

Common Symptoms:

  • Fatigue

  • Itchy skin

  • Dry eyes and mouth

  • Jaundice

  • Enlarged spleen or liver

These conditions are less common but require lifelong management.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any of the following, consult a healthcare provider:

  • Yellowing of the eyes or skin

  • Chronic fatigue or weakness

  • Swelling in your abdomen or legs

  • Persistent abdominal pain

  • Changes in stool or urine color

Conclusion

The liver plays a crucial role in keeping your body healthy. While many liver diseases develop silently, knowing the symptoms and risk factors can help you seek medical care before serious damage occurs. Regular health check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and timely screening are key to liver disease prevention and early treatment. 

Location: Kochi, Kerala, India

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