SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH LIVER DYSFUNCTION
Abnormal metabolism of fats
- Abnormalities in the level of fats in the blood stream. For example; elevated LDL cholesterol and reduced HDL cholesterol and elevated triglycerides.
- Arteries blocked with fat, leading to high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes.
- Build up of fat in other body organs (fatty degeneration of organs).
- Lumps of fat in the skin (lipomas and other fatty tumors).
- Excessive weight gain, which may lead to obesity.
- Inability to lose weight even while dieting.
- Sluggish metabolism.
- Protuberant abdomen (pot belly).
- Cellulite.
- Fatty liver.
- Roll of fat around the upper abdomen - (liver roll).
Digestive problems
- Indigestion.
- Reflux.
- Haemorrhoids.
- Gall stones and gall bladder disease.
- Intolerance to fatty foods.
- Intolerance to alcohol.
- Nausea and vomiting attacks.
- Abdominal bloating.
- Constipation.
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
- Pain over the liver - (upper right corner of abdomen & lower right rib cage).
Blood sugar problems
- Craving for sugar.
- Hypoglycaemia and unstable blood sugar levels.
- Mature onset diabetes (Type 2) is common in those with a fatty liver.
Nervous system
- Depression.
- Mood changes such as anger and irritability.
- Metaphysically the liver is known as the "seat of anger".
- Poor concentration and "foggy brain".
- Overheating of the body, especially the face and torso.
- Recurrent headaches (including migraine) associated with nausea.
Immune dysfunction
- Allergies - sinusitis, hay fever, asthma, dermatitis, hives, etc.
- Multiple food and chemical sensitivities.
- Skin rashes and inflammations.
- Increased risk of autoimmune diseases.
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
- Fibromyalgia.
- Increase in recurrent viral, bacterial and parasitic infections.
External signs
- Coated tongue.
- Bad breath.
- Skin rashes.
- Itchy skin (pruritus).
- Excessive sweating.
- Offensive body odour.
- Dark circles under the eyes.
- Yellow discoloration of the eyes.
- Red, swollen, itchy eyes (allergic eyes).
- Acne rosacea - (red pimples around the nose, cheeks and chin).
- Brownish spots and blemishes on the skin (liver spots).
- Red palms and soles which may also be itchy and inflamed.
- Flushed facial appearance or excessive facial blood vessels (capillaries/ veins).
Hormonal Imbalance
- Intolerance to hormone replacement therapy or the contraceptive pill (eg. side effects)
- Menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes may be more severe.
- Premenstrual syndrome may be more severe.
NOTE:
All of the above symptoms are common manifestations of a dysfunctional liver. However, they can also be due to other causes, of a more sinister nature, so, in all cases of persistent symptoms it is vital to see your doctor.