Ways to Identify Early Warning Signs of Liver Disease

Your liver is one of the most important organs in your body. Your liver filters out poisons, aids in the digestion of your food, and builds your immune system. But if your liver becomes compromised, it won’t always scream out loud. It’s invisible mostly the first time, most of the time.

It is important to recognize the signs of liver disease earlier rather than later. The earlier you know the problem, the earlier you can correct it.

Here’s what to watch out for:

Unexplained Fatigue

Are you always tired, even if you are sleeping a great deal? One of the initial signs of liver disease is fatigue. Your body must work twice as hard to stay awake and alert when your liver is underperforming. It can cause you to be drained, debilitated, and disoriented.

Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes

This is known as jaundice. If your liver is not able to destroy bilirubin, it will build up in your body. This turns your skin or the whites of your eyes yellow. A change in color needs to be reported.

Swelling in the Abdomen or Legs

Abdominal bloating (ascites) or swelling in ankles and legs (edema) may be indications of liver issues. When your belt pants are tight or your feet are swollen, your liver is in distress.

Digestive Problems

Liver issues can result in:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Oily or yellow-colored stools
• Dark-colored urine

These are mistaken for stomach problems initially, but actually signify a weak liver.

Skin Pigmentation

Itchy skin for no reason. Or spider veins on your chest or back. They’re not big, but they’re a sign of how well your liver is working. Some people get easy bruising or bleeding as well, and that could indicate that your liver is making fewer clotting proteins.

Mental Confusion or Mood Changes

When poisons build up in your system, they ravage your brain. You sleep a lot, you’re grouchy, or you’re confused. This is hepatic encephalopathy, a sign that your liver isn’t good at detoxing anymore.

You have to take notice as soon as you see even some of these signs. The liver does not complain, but the sooner it worsens, the harder it is to recover.

Check Your SGPT Level

Another method to test for liver issues early is to get your level of SGPT (Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase) tested. SGPT is an enzyme that is present in the cells of your liver. When your liver is injured, the enzyme leaks into the blood. An increased level of SGPT generally indicates inflammation or injury to your liver. Having your level of SGPT tested by a blood test and deciding on the next step is simple.

Where to Get Checked

You don’t need to wait for the symptoms to worsen. You can visit a reputable laboratory in Quezon City and request a liver panel test. It’s quick, inexpensive, and serene. A lot of laboratories these days have packages with SGPT, SGOT, bilirubin, etc. Opt for a laboratory that employs trained medical staff and high-end equipment so you are assured of accurate results.

Wrapping Up

Listen to your body. Know your warning signs. Have yourself checked. And if you happen to be just in the vicinity of a Quezon City lab, you’re halfway to saving your liver for good.