What are the symptoms of poor liver health?

Mar 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My friend is in his twenties and has recently experienced some pain in the liver area. Is this a sign of liver problems? Doctor, what are the symptoms of poor liver health?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Gao Jun

The liver is responsible for various functions, and poor liver function may lead to symptoms such as pain in the liver area, indigestion, jaundice, easy bleeding, fatigue, and weakness.

1. Pain in the liver area: When the liver becomes inflamed, swollen, or develops a tumor, the liver capsule may be stretched, stimulating nerve endings and causing pain in the liver area.

2. Indigestion: The liver secretes bile to aid in the digestion of fats. When liver function is impaired, bile secretion may decrease or its quality may decline, affecting fat digestion and absorption, leading to symptoms of indigestion such as loss of appetite and nausea.

3. Jaundice: When the liver's ability to process bilirubin decreases, bilirubin accumulates in the bloodstream, causing yellowing of the skin and sclera, and darkening of urine color.

4. Easy bleeding: When liver function declines, the synthesis of coagulation factors decreases, leading to impaired blood clotting and symptoms such as gum bleeding, nosebleeds, and skin bruising.

5. Fatigue and weakness: The liver is an important organ for energy metabolism. When liver function is impaired, metabolic disturbances of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins may occur, leading to insufficient energy production and accumulation of toxins in the body, which can affect neuromuscular function and cause feelings of fatigue and weakness.

If one or more of the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention for relevant examinations and treatment.