AskDocDoc
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 28M : 11S
background image
Click Here
background image
General Health
Question #18061
73 days ago
132

sign of bad liver - #18061

Siddharth

I am really worried that I might be suffering from some kind of liver issue. A few months ago, I noticed that my skin was itching like crazy and my shoulders started getting yellowish, which made me think could that be a sign of bad liver? I've also been feeling kinda tired, more than usual, you know? Plus, my digestion has been super off—I'm bloated all the time and can’t seem to eat heavy meals without feeling awful. I went to my doctor and they did some blood tests but said everything looked normal, which makes me second guess myself honestly. But I can’t shake off this feeling that I’m missing something here. Could these symptoms like itchy skin and jaundice, really be a sign of bad liver? I mean, I try to eat healthy, but I do drink alcohol occasionally and I know that might not help. What if I'm just not noticing other signs of bad liver? Are there other symptoms that I should be looking out for? It’s frustrating because sometimes I feel fine, but then it hits me again. Should I insist on more tests or something?

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

It sounds like you’re concerned about potential liver issues, given the symptoms you’re experiencing. Symptoms like itchy skin and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) can indeed be indicative of liver dysfunction, especially when paired with fatigue and digestive issues. The liver plays a crucial role in metabolism, detoxification, and digestion, so when it’s not functioning properly, these types of symptoms might appear. There are several liver-related conditions that could result in such symptoms, ranging from hepatitis, fatty liver disease, to more serious conditions like cirrhosis. Alcohol consumption can certainly be a risk factor for liver disease, though it often requires chronic and excessive use to cause significant damage.

Besides the symptoms you’ve already noticed, you might watch for additional signs of liver issues like abdominal swelling or pain, dark urine, pale stool, or unexplained weight loss. If you’re still experiencing these symptoms, it would be reasonable to discuss further investigations with your doctor. While basic blood tests can sometimes look normal even with minor liver dysfunction, there are specific liver function tests (LFTs) or ultrasound imaging that can provide a more comprehensive view of liver health. It’s crucial to mention any personal risk factors like alcohol use or family history of liver disease to your doctor, which can help tailor the appropriate diagnostic evalution. In the meantime, minimizing alcohol intake, eating balanced meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding over-the-counter medications that may affect the liver such as acetaminophen, can be practical steps to safeguard your liver health. If symptoms persist or worsen, particularly jaundice, it’s a priority to seek re-evaluation to avoid missing any significant underlying issues.

16235 answered questions
87% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions