What are the early signs of liver problems?

As a healthcare professional with experience in medical diagnostics, I can provide you with some of the early signs that may indicate liver problems. It's important to note that these signs can be quite subtle and may not always be directly associated with the liver, which is why it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. **Early signs of liver problems may include:** 1. Fatigue - A general feeling of tiredness that doesn't improve with rest. 2. Jaundice - Yellowing of the skin and eyes, which is a sign of liver dysfunction. 3. Abdominal pain - Pain or discomfort, particularly in the upper right part of the abdomen where the liver is located. 4. Dark urine - A darker than usual color in urine can be a sign of liver issues. 5. Pale stools - Clay-colored or pale stools may indicate a problem with bile production by the liver. 6. Itchy skin - Persistent itching can be a result of the liver not properly processing bile. 7. Swelling in the legs and ankles (edema) - This can be due to the liver not producing enough albumin, a protein that helps keep fluid in the bloodstream. 8. Loss of appetite - A decreased desire to eat or feeling full quickly can be an early sign. 9. Nausea and vomiting - These can be symptoms of a more serious liver issue. 10. Confusion - In more severe cases, liver problems can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, which affects brain function and can cause confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may order blood tests or imaging studies to determine the cause of these symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of liver disease include: Skin and eyes that appear yellowish (jaundice) Abdominal pain and swelling. Swelling in the legs and ankles.