Liver failure occurs when the liver becomes damaged, leading to a decline in its function. In the early stages, liver failure symptoms can be difficult to differentiate from other diseases. As the damage progresses, the symptoms become more distinct.
Recognizing the early signs of liver failure is crucial for early detection and intervention before the liver sustains severe damage.
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Symptoms of Liver Failure
Liver failure usually progresses through several stages, either gradually or rapidly.
In the early phase, signs of liver damage may already be present. However, the symptoms often resemble digestive disorders. As liver damage worsens, the symptoms become more apparent until the liver loses its ability to function.
Here are some key symptoms of liver failure you should watch out for:
- Upper right abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- General discomfort
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Confusion
- Extreme fatigue
- Pale, clay-colored stools
- Dark urine
- Itchy skin
- Swollen abdomen
Initially, these symptoms resemble common digestive issues such as upper right abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and general malaise. However, when liver damage leads to bile and toxins leaking into the bloodstream, symptoms like jaundice, stool and urine discoloration, and other warning signs begin to appear.
Liver failure can also impact hormone levels, causing an imbalance in estrogen and testosterone. As a result, men and women may experience gender-specific symptoms.
- In women: Irregular or completely absent menstrual cycles
- In men: Testicular shrinkage or enlarged breast tissue (gynecomastia)
Chronic Liver Failure Symptoms
Chronic liver failure develops over time and progresses slowly, often making its symptoms less noticeable. However, there are signs to watch for, including:
- Easy bruising and bleeding
- Spider-like blood vessels or small red spots on the skin
- Fat deposits on the skin or around the eyes
- Unexplained weight loss and muscle wasting
- Breath with a foul odor or fruity smell
Severe Liver Failure Symptoms Requiring Immediate Medical Attention
- Swollen abdomen due to fluid buildup
- Vomiting blood or coffee-ground-like vomit
- Neurological issues such as twitching, tremors, or muscle control loss
- Decreased urine output
- Shortness of breath
Causes of Liver Failure
The causes of acute and chronic liver failure vary.
Causes of Acute Liver Failure:
- Viral hepatitis infections
- Drug overdose or misuse
- Pregnancy complications
- Genetic disorders
- Liver cancer
- Septic shock
Causes of Chronic Liver Failure:
- Chronic hepatitis infections
- Long-term excessive alcohol consumption
- Liver-toxic medications
- Bile duct obstruction
- Fatty liver disease due to metabolic disorders
- Autoimmune diseases
- Cardiovascular diseases (heart and blood vessel disorders)
Can Liver Failure Be Cured?
The possibility of curing liver failure depends on its cause. Acute liver failure can often be treated if the underlying issue is addressed promptly.
However, in most cases of chronic liver failure, liver damage is irreversible. In such situations, a liver transplant is often the only way to restore liver function.
Treatment for liver failure generally focuses on managing symptoms, preventing complications, and slowing disease progression. Liver transplants have a high success rate, especially when performed early.
How to Prevent Liver Failure
You can reduce the risk of liver failure by taking the following preventive measures:
- Take medications only as prescribed by a doctor
- Limit or completely avoid alcohol consumption
- Practice safe sex and avoid multiple partners
- Do not share needles
- Get vaccinated for hepatitis
- Maintain a healthy weight
Regular health check-ups, including liver function tests (SGOT, SGPT), can help detect early liver issues before they progress to failure.
If you experience any of the symptoms above, consult a liver specialist (hepatologist) immediately. You can visit Mandaya Liver Center at Mandaya Royal Hospital Group to receive expert consultation and treatment plans tailored to your condition.
Contact us via WhatsApp Chat, Book Appointment, or download the Care Dokter app from Google Play and App Store to schedule your visit.
