What are the manifestations of liver dysfunction?
Sep 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Liver dysfunction, a condition caused by impaired liver function, commonly manifests as abnormalities in the skin and mucous membranes, gastrointestinal discomfort, tendency to bleed, altered mental status, and abdominal abnormalities. Patients are advised to avoid alcohol in daily life, reduce intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods to alleviate the burden on the liver, regularly monitor liver function, and follow medical advice for treatment and management to stabilize their condition.
In general, hepatic insufficiency, as a condition caused by impaired liver function, commonly manifests with abnormalities in the skin and mucous membranes, digestive discomfort, bleeding tendencies, altered mental status, and abdominal abnormalities. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Skin and mucous membrane abnormalities: When liver metabolism declines, bilirubin metabolism becomes obstructed, leading to yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes—known as jaundice. Additionally, reduced hepatic inactivation of estrogen may lead to spider angiomas on the face, neck, and chest, as well as redness in the thenar and hypothenar eminences of the palms—referred to as palmar erythema or "liver palms."
2. Digestive discomfort: Impaired bile secretion by the liver hinders food digestion, often causing symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Abdominal bloating and diarrhea may occur after eating, and some patients experience dull or distending pain in the upper right abdomen, particularly exacerbated by fatigue or consumption of greasy foods.
3. Bleeding tendency: Reduced synthesis of clotting factors by the liver may result in gum bleeding or nosebleeds. Minor trauma can easily cause bruising, and severe cases may develop gastrointestinal bleeding, presenting as black tarry stools (melena) or hematemesis (vomiting blood).
4. Altered mental status: Weakened detoxification function allows toxins to accumulate in the body, affecting the nervous system. Early signs may include fatigue, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. As the condition worsens, patients may become agitated, confused, or even progress to hepatic encephalopathy.
5. Abdominal abnormalities: Some patients develop ascites, characterized by abdominal distension and a noticeable fluid wave upon palpation. This may be accompanied by lower limb edema, where pressing on the ankles or lower legs leaves an indentation that recovers slowly.
Patients are advised to avoid alcohol, reduce intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods, and minimize the burden on the liver. Regular monitoring of liver function and adherence to medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments are recommended to stabilize the condition.
