The liver plays an integral part in the synthesis of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Any compromise of the liver’s functioning makes fewer nutrients available to the body. When a problem occurs, the liver has the ability to regenerate itself. Unfortunately, this ability may delay a diagnosis until the problem or disease is well-established. A liver transplant is a viable option in some cases of chronic problems or disease.
Jaundice
Characterized by a yellow tinge to the skin and whites of the eyes, jaundice signals an increase in bilirubin--the pigment in bile. Jaundice is often the first sign of many possible different disorders of the liver, including cirrhosis, hepatitis, anemia, bile duct obstruction or several genetically inherited disorders.
Portal Hypertension
When blood pressure rises in the portal vein that leads from the intestine to the liver, it may lead to abdominal distention, abdominal pain and internal bleeding. A less obvious sign results in an enlarged spleen. This problem of the liver is most often caused by cirrhosis due to excessive alcohol intake, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis of the liver typically results from continued excessive alcohol intake, though it can be caused by other factors such as hepatitis or hereditary diseases as well. With cirrhosis, healthy liver tissue is replaced with fibrous connective tissue and scar tissue, impeding function of the liver. The scarring that cirrhosis causes can lead to liver failure.
Hepatitis
Generally, hepatitis results from a viral infection. Hepatitis can also occur from too much drinking. Abstaining from alcohol can result in reversal of alcoholic hepatitis. Viral hepatitis may require long-term treatment with medications. Loss of appetite, abdominal pain, jaundice, fever, abdominal swelling and unusual thirst could signal a hepatitis infection.
Liver Failure
This medical emergency may include jaundice, nausea, vomiting, confusion and abdominal pain. The liver has ceased to function and cannot efficiently filter and synthesize nutrients from the bloodstream. Chronic liver failure takes years to develop, but acute liver failure occurs over the course of a few days. Acute liver failure is reversible in some cases; other cases may require a liver transplant.
