A gastroenterologist has shared four warning signs to look out for, as these could signal liver damage. Dr Joseph Salhab often shares medical advice with his millions of social media followers, posting under the handle @thestomachdoc.
In a recent update, the doctor shared some "signs of liver inflammation you need to know", including one "you don't want to miss". Before he listed the symptoms, Dr Salhab explained: "Alcohol poisoning is a huge culprit.
"Scarring and liver cirrhosis from fatty liver disease. Viral causes include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Drugs like alcohol, supplements, and various medications can also damage the liver.
"Autoimmune issues—such as autoimmune hepatitis, PBC, PSC. Take care of your liver by watching what you put in your body and getting regular check-ups."
Listing symptoms to watch out for, the expert said: "Right upper quadrant pain that just won't go away, this can be due to something called hepatitis, which means inflammation of the liver, secondary to things such as a viral infection or even alcohol poisoning."
Up next, he said, is nausea and/or vomiting "that just won't go away ... especially if it's worse after a night of drinking". A "swollen or bloated belly" was the third warning sign, with this due to fluid build-up from the liver "not working correctly".
Finally, the doctor warned of jaundice and scleral icterus, the yellowing of skin and eyes, which Dr Salhab said is a very serious sign of liver damage. He continued: "It should definitely prompt you to get seen by your nearest healthcare provider".
