Symptoms of Liver Disease

Signs of Toxicity

A toxic backup prevents the liver from performing its daily duties. In addition, toxins in the blood are easily incorporated into the brain and endocrine glands causing central nervous system problems and hormone imbalances. Unfortunately, the symptoms of toxicity are typically vague and dismissed as inconsequential. Some of the more common signs include:

  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Depression
  • Infertility
  • Breast pain
  • Menstrual disturbances including early menopause
  • Adrenal gland exhaustion
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Memory problems
  • Low appetite
  • Bloating
  • Tender or painful abdomen
  • Spider shaped blood vessels on torso

Please Note: Several of these symptoms define a classic hangover, which results from the toxic byproducts of alcohol metabolism.

While signs of an overloaded liver often go unnoticed until significant damage is incurred, some recognizable symptoms necessitating immediate physician care include:

  • Jaundice – a yellowing of the skin and eyes
  • Dark colored urine
  • Severe itching
  • Pale colored and/or fatty stools

Learn about Living with Liver Disease.

About the Author

Stephen Holt, MD, PhD, FACP

Stephen Holt, M.D. is a Distinguished Professor of Medicine NYCPM (Emerite) and a medical practitioner in New York State. He has published many peer-review papers in medicine and he is a best-selling author with more than twenty books in national and international distribution. He has received many awards for teaching and research. Dr. Holt is a frequent lecturer at scientific meetings and healthcare facilities throughout the world. He is a best selling author and the founder of the Holt Institute of Medicine.

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