What are the Symptoms of Liver Infection?
September 27, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Liver infection, often caused by viral infections like hepatitis or other pathogens, can manifest with a variety of symptoms. Common symptoms of a liver infection may include:
- Fatigue:
- Persistent and overwhelming tiredness or lack of energy.
- Jaundice:
- Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes due to a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown.
- Abdominal Pain or Discomfort:
- Generalized or localized pain, tenderness, or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen, where the liver is located.
- Nausea and Vomiting:
- Feeling of queasiness or an urge to vomit, often accompanied by actual vomiting.
- Loss of Appetite:
- Reduced desire to eat or a diminished appetite.
- Unexplained Weight Loss:
- Losing weight unintentionally without making changes in diet or exercise.
- Fever and Chills:
- Elevated body temperature and chills as the body’s immune response tries to combat the infection.
- Dark Urine:
- Urine appears darker in color than usual due to the presence of bilirubin.
- Pale Stools:
- Stools may appear light or clay-colored due to reduced bilirubin output.
- Itchy Skin (Pruritus):
- Persistent itching of the skin, often due to the accumulation of bile salts.
- Muscle Aches and Joint Pain:
- Generalized or localized pain and discomfort in muscles and joints.
- Enlarged Liver (Hepatomegaly):
- The liver may become enlarged and tender to the touch.
- Enlarged Spleen (Splenomegaly):
- The spleen, an organ near the liver, may also become enlarged.
- Changes in Mental State:
- Confusion, difficulty concentrating, or changes in memory and cognitive function (in severe cases).
It’s important to note that the severity and combination of symptoms can vary depending on the type of liver infection (e.g., hepatitis A, B, C) and the individual’s overall health. Liver infections can be caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, or other factors. Hepatitis viruses (A, B, C, D, E) are common culprits for liver infections.
If you suspect you have a liver infection or are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical attention for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. Depending on the cause, treatment may involve antiviral medications, supportive care, lifestyle changes, or, in severe cases, liver transplantation.