Hidden Red Flags: Early Warning Signs Your Liver Might Be Under Stress

45. Unexplained Weight Gain

While a struggling liver can lead to weight loss, it can also cause the opposite: unexplained weight gain. This is often due to fluid retention, as the liver's ability to produce albumin, a protein that regulates fluid balance, is compromised. This can lead to fluid accumulation in your legs and abdomen, causing a noticeable increase in your weight. Additionally, a sluggish liver can impact metabolism, making it harder for your body to burn fat efficiently. If you are experiencing unexplained weight gain, it could be a sign that your liver is no longer able to effectively manage your body's fluid and metabolic balance.

46. A Consistent Feeling of Fullness on Your Right Side

This goes beyond general bloating. A distinct feeling of pressure, heaviness, or fullness in the upper right quadrant of your abdomen, where the liver is located, can be a direct physical sensation of liver distress. This can be caused by liver inflammation or enlargement (hepatomegaly) as it works harder to filter the blood. This symptom can be subtle and might feel like mild discomfort rather than sharp pain. Paying attention to this localized sensation, especially after eating fatty foods or alcohol, can be an early indicator that your liver is under strain.