Your liver is one of the most important organs in your body. It helps clean out harmful substances, including alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol—generally more than two to three drinks per day—can damage your liver over time. Here are some early warning signs that your liver might be in trouble.

1. Feeling Constantly Tired and Weak

One of the first signs that your liver might be damaged by alcohol is feeling tired and weak all the time. This type of tiredness doesn’t go away, even with rest. The liver helps provide energy to your body by breaking down nutrients. When it isn’t working well, it can’t do that as efficiently, which makes you feel tired and sluggish. If you’re always feeling tired or have trouble doing everyday activities, it could be a sign that your liver needs help.

2. Yellow Skin and Eyes (Jaundice)

Another major sign of liver damage is if your skin or the whites of your eyes start to look yellow. This condition is called jaundice, and it is a common symptom of liver problems. Jaundice happens because your liver isn’t able to get rid of a yellow substance called bilirubin, which builds up in your body. When your liver can’t filter it out, your skin and eyes turn yellow. If you notice this happening, you should see a doctor right away because it could mean your liver is in serious trouble.

3. Pain or Swelling in the Belly

If you feel pain or discomfort in the upper right part of your belly, it could be a sign that your liver is swollen or inflamed. The liver is located under your right ribcage, and when it becomes swollen, it can cause pain. You might also notice your belly getting bigger or swollen, which is called ascites. This means your liver is struggling to regulate fluids in your body. If you have pain or swelling in your belly, it’s important to talk to a doctor.

4. Nausea and Loss of Appetite

Your liver plays a key role in digestion by producing bile, which helps break down fats. When alcohol damages your liver, it can disrupt this process and make you feel nauseous. You might also lose your appetite and not want to eat much. If you are feeling nauseous or have lost interest in eating without a clear reason, it could be a sign that your liver is in trouble and needs help.

5. Bruising and Bleeding Easily

The liver helps produce proteins that are needed for your blood to clot. If your liver is damaged, it can’t make enough of these proteins, which means you might start bruising or bleeding more easily. You could notice bruises that seem to appear for no reason or cuts that take a long time to stop bleeding. If you’re bruising easily or bleeding a lot from small cuts, it could be a sign that your liver is damaged.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s important to act quickly. Schedule a visit with your doctor for a checkup, especially if you drink alcohol regularly. The good news is that if you catch liver damage early, your liver can often heal itself. Reducing alcohol intake or quitting altogether can significantly improve your liver’s health. Seeking medical support for quitting alcohol can also be very helpful, as professional guidance makes the process safer and more effective.

Conclusion

Your liver usually doesn’t show signs of damage until it’s already been harmed, which makes it crucial to recognize these early warning signs. If you notice constant fatigue, yellow skin, belly pain, nausea, or easy bruising, it’s time to see a doctor. The sooner you get help, the better chance you have of stopping or even reversing the damage. Your liver works hard to keep you healthy, so make sure you take care of it.

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