The liver is the largest solid organ in the body and performs a wide variety of different functions in the body. It produces bile for digestion, makes blood proteins, filters the blood, stores nutrients, breaks down old hormones, and detoxifies any contaminants in our bodies. Since it has a long list of functions, it's no wonder your liver could use some support, whether it's healthy or suffering from a disorder.

Although the liver has an incredible ability to regenerate itself when damaged or lost, scarring of the liver tissue cannot be repaired. There are a number of factors that can damage the liver or reduce its function, including infection, excessive alcohol consumption, medications, recreational drugs, environmental toxins, and stress.

Signs of Reduced Liver Function

Depending on the cause of the problem, the symptoms of a liver condition can be varied. The most common sign of liver stagnation is jaundice, which is a buildup of bilirubin in the blood that deposits as a yellow colour in the tissues, especially in the whites of the eyes. Normally, the liver processes and filters out bilirubin so it cannot deposit in the skin. Another sign of reduced liver function is itchy skin and a feeling of fullness and discomfort in the right upper abdomen. As the damage to the liver progresses, fluid can build up in the abdomen and varicosities (large blue-purple superficial veins) appear on the skin of the abdomen and often the lower body as well.

Common Liver Disorders

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is (by definition) an inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by a wide variety of factors, such as viruses, bacterial infections, medications, or toxins. There are 5 types of hepatitis viruses, A-E. Hepatitis A is an infection that comes from contaminated food and water. It is usually only seen in North Americans who return from visiting tropical destinations. It usually resolves itself in one to two months and does not become chronic. Hepatitis B-E is spread through contaminated blood, blood products or sexual contact. The first signs of these infections often occur several months after the infection. These viral types usually result in chronic liver inflammation that leads to liver damage and can be life-threatening. Overuse of alcohol, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also cause hepatitis. Chlorinated hydrocarbons and arsenic are environmental toxins that are known to inflame the liver.

Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty Liver Disease is a condition where large globules of fat accumulate in the liver cells in a process called steatosis. It most commonly occurs in those with excessive alcohol intake or in those who are obese (alcoholic or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease). Most people with this condition remain asymptomatic. Doctors often discover it during routine exams or blood work. Fatty liver disease is largely reversible. However, it becomes concerning when fat buildup triggers liver inflammation. This condition develops into steatohepatitis.

Liver Cysts 

Liver cysts are found most often during routine screening tests for other conditions. This is a harmless condition that actually affects at least 5% of the population and does not have any harmful side effects. Only 5% of that small percentage actually develops symptoms of upper abdominal fullness or discomfort. Cysts are small, fluid-filled cavities in the liver. Local inflammation or bile duct abnormalities can cause them. Most liver cysts remain harmless. Doctors monitor them regularly when no infection develops.

Cholestasis 

Cholestasis is the term used to describe when there is a blockage in the bile duct leading from the liver to the intestines. This causes bile to back up into the liver, which can cause inflammation in the liver and cyst formation. If left untreated, this can damage the structure of the liver and cause hepatitis.

Cirrhosis of the liver 

Cirrhosis of the liver occurs when inflammation causes hardening and scarring of the liver tissue. Eventually, this scarring contracts and compromises blood flow to the liver. The most common cause is excessive alcohol consumption. Other causes are hepatitis C, steatohepatitis (inflammatory fatty liver disease) and toxicity. This is often the condition that results from other liver disorders that cause prolonged inflammation.

Protecting Your Liver

It is important to both protect and support the liver in all of these conditions in order to reduce the risk of their progression and help prevent any complications. Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly are two simple ways to improve both your liver and your overall health. Avoiding the use of toxic medications, recreational drugs and alcohol helps to protect the liver against damage. Performing regular liver cleanses can help to keep the liver working at its peak function.