What Causes Liver Pain?

Like many other physical symptoms, liver pain is often associated with a range of serious medical issues. Take any signs of liver pain seriously. If they continue for prolonged periods of time, seek medical treatment or advice from a doctor. Below are some common issues that produce liver pain and their causes.

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a condition where chronic liver disease eventually damages and deteriorates the liver. When this happens, scar tissue replaces normal liver tissue and reduces its functionality. In some cases, nodules can also form at the site of damage. Cirrhosis is commonly caused by alcoholism, Hepatitis B, C, or D, inherited diseases or as side effects from some medications. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain and bloating due to fluid accumulation in the liver. Others are appetite loss, fatigue, weight loss, itching or nausea.

Liver cancer

Any malignant tumor affecting the liver is considered liver cancer. Symptoms can vary widely, but some include abdominal pain, especially in the liver area. Many people experience infrequent, sharp pains, while others feel constant, dull pain. Other symptoms to look for are an enlarged or tender liver, both of which are detectable by your doctor and a simple medical screening.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome encompasses multiple disorders that essentially bring discomfort to the gastrointestinal tract. Liver pain is a common result of this disorder. Other symptoms are extremely variable, but include abdominal discomfort, bloating, back pain, diarrhea, headache and more. The precise causes of IBS are not known, but there are many treatments available even though it is sometimes difficult to diagnose.

As with all serious medical disorders, self diagnosis is discouraged. Any signs of liver pain, severe or mild, for prolonged periods of time warrant medical attention. Do not ignore these symptoms as they are indicators of potentially life-threatening diseases.

Any signs of liver pain for prolonged periods of time warrant medical attention