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So if something with it goes wrong, various aspects of your health can be impacted.
Generally, symptoms dont crop up unless the issue is advanced, so millions are unaware they’re sick.
Jordan Moss
But that doesnt mean you cant catch liver disease before its too late.
If you notice any potential signs, make an appointment with your primary care provider.
These are the red flags to keep on your radar.
This is defined as exhaustion that significantly impairs your quality of life.
Its really debilitating and very, very hard to treat, Dr. Lai says.
Its unclear why this happens, though Dr. Lai says researchers have some guesses.
The other potential reason crops up once the condition advances.
Related:Constant Fatigue?
Here’s When to See a Doctor If You’re Tired All the Time
2.
Your skin and eyes look yellow.
However, if it goes unmanaged, the liver cells can get inflamed and scarred, Dr. Lai says.
This ultimately leads to cirrhosis, where the liver is in failure and stops working, she explains.
This occurs because bile builds up in the blood, which contains a yellow waste substance called bilirubin.
Your entire body is itchy.
Another symptom of advanced liver disease, particularly PBC and hepatitis C, is itching.
Dr. Lai notes that many of her patients cant sleep because their symptoms are so distracting and uncomfortable.
Related:How to Actually Resist the Urge to Scratch Itchy Skin
4.
Youre never hungry anymore.
Many liver conditions can cause cirrhosis, including PBC and hepatitis.
Plus, lets face it, you simply may not feel that great, Dr. Lai says.
So dont be surprised if youre less hungry than usual.
You have red and purple marks on your skin.
They’re typically painless and most often appear on the chest, face, neck, and arms.
Think you may have one?
Press on it and watch what happens.
Spider angiomas will often disappear and then come back when pressure is released.
For this reason, these skin marks are also common in people who are pregnant.
It can be caught very early with routine bloodwork, Dr. Lai says.
Alternatively, you may be checked for gallstones, which can sometimes elevate alkaline phosphatase levels.
Definitely be honest when you answeryour doctor isnt trying to police you.
Theyre trying to help.
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