Your liver is one of the hardest-working organs in your body. It filters toxins, processes nutrients, and keeps your metabolism running smoothly. But when your liver starts to struggle, your body often gives subtle warning signs before serious damage occurs. Two of the most common early indicators are yellowing of the eyes (jaundice) and persistent itching of the skin.
Why Yellow Eyes Matter
Jaundice occurs when bilirubin - a yellowish pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells - builds up in the blood. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and removes it from the body. When the liver is inflamed, obstructed, or damaged, bilirubin levels rise, causing the whites of the eyes and sometimes the skin to turn yellow.
Yellowing of the eyes should never be ignored. While it can be caused by something as simple as a blocked bile duct or viral infection, it may also be a sign of more serious conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or even liver cancer.
The Link Between Itchy Skin and Liver Health
Persistent, unexplained itching is another sign that your liver might not be functioning properly. This itchiness often happens when bile salts build up under the skin due to poor bile flow. People sometimes dismiss this as a skin allergy, but if itching continues for weeks, especially without a rash, it could point to an underlying liver condition.
Other early symptoms of liver trouble may include:
• Dark urine or pale stools
• Fatigue or weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Swelling in the abdomen or ankles
• Nausea and loss of appetite
Why Early Detection Is Key
The liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate, but if damage continues unchecked, it can lead to scarring (cirrhosis) and eventually liver failure. Identifying problems early means treatment can begin before the damage becomes irreversible.
If you notice yellowing of the eyes, unexplained itching, or other persistent symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention from gastroenterologists like Dr Fernandes Mark Lee. Diagnostic tests such as blood panels, ultrasounds, or imaging scans can help determine the cause and guide proper treatment.
Taking Care of Your Liver
You can protect your liver by adopting healthy habits that reduce its workload and lower your risk of chronic disease:
• Maintain a balanced diet: Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit processed foods and sugar to keep your liver functioning optimally.
• Limit alcohol intake: Excessive drinking is one of the leading causes of liver damage, so moderation is essential.
• Stay physically active: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and prevents fatty liver buildup over time.
• Get vaccinated: Hepatitis A and B vaccines can protect against viral infections that damage the liver and reduce long-term risk.
• Avoid unnecessary medications or supplements: Some over-the-counter painkillers and herbal remedies can stress the liver if overused or taken without guidance.
Conclusion
Yellow eyes and itchy skin are not just cosmetic concerns; they may be your body's way of telling you something is wrong with your liver. Don't ignore these signals. Seek timely medical attention from a gastroenterologist like Dr Fernandes Mark Lee to find the underlying cause and protect your long-term liver health.
