Protect your liver: Know the risks, symptoms, and healthy habits

KATHMANDU: The liver, one of the body’s most vital organs, plays a crucial role in digestion, detoxification, and metabolism.

However, lifestyle habits and certain medical conditions can lead to liver damage, which often progresses silently until it becomes severe.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures is essential for maintaining a healthy liver.

Causes of Liver Damage

Liver damage can occur due to multiple factors, including:

• Excessive alcohol consumption: Over time, alcohol can cause fatty liver, hepatitis, or cirrhosis.

• Viral infections: Hepatitis B and C are common viral infections that damage liver cells.

• Obesity and poor diet: Excess fat in the liver, known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), can lead to inflammation and scarring.

• Medications and toxins: Overuse of painkillers, antibiotics, or exposure to harmful chemicals can impair liver function.

• Genetic conditions: Certain inherited disorders affect liver metabolism and function.

Common Symptoms of Liver Damage

Liver problems often develop slowly and may go unnoticed initially. Key symptoms include:

• Fatigue and weakness

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

• Swelling in the abdomen or legs

• Dark urine and pale stools

• Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite

• Itchy skin or easy bruising

Early detection through regular check-ups and liver function tests can prevent irreversible damage.

Tips to Keep Your Liver Healthy

Maintaining liver health involves lifestyle adjustments and mindful habits:

1. Balanced diet: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods.

2. Limit alcohol consumption: Moderation is key, and those at risk of liver disease should avoid alcohol altogether.

3. Regular exercise: Physical activity helps prevent fatty liver disease and supports overall metabolic health.

4. Vaccination: Hepatitis B vaccination provides protection against one of the major viral causes of liver damage.

5. Avoid unnecessary medications: Always consult a doctor before taking over-the-counter drugs or supplements.

6. Stay hydrated and maintain healthy weight: Proper hydration and weight control reduce liver strain.

Experts emphasize that liver health is integral to overall well-being. “A healthy liver ensures the body can process nutrients, fight infections, and eliminate toxins efficiently,” says Dr. Sushil Khadka, a hepatologist based in Kathmandu.