The liver is a vital organ that plays a crucial role in maintaining your child's overall health and well-being. As a multifunctional organ, the liver performs various essential tasks including aiding digestion, storing energy, filtering toxins and purifying the body of harmful substances. By removing toxins and waste products from the bloodstream, the liver helps to keep your child's body clean and healthy. Additionally, the liver stores glycogen which is converted into glucose to provide energy for the body. With its unique ability to regenerate itself, the liver is a remarkable organ that deserves attention and care to ensure optimal health and function.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Meena J, Senior Consultant, Paediatrics & Neonatology, Aakash Healthcare listed early signs and symptoms that may indicate serious liver problems in kids.

Symptoms Of Liver Problems

Persistent Jaundice (Pale Yellow Eyes/Skin)

Jaundice that lasts beyond the newborn period or appears later in childhood can signal liver dysfunction.

Swollen Belly (Abdominal Distension)

A bloated abdomen could be due to fluid buildup (ascites), often linked to liver damage.

Dark Urine And Pale Stools

Very dark-colored urine and unusually pale or clay-colored stools may reflect bile flow issues or liver disease.

Chronic Fatigue And Weakness

If a child is unusually tired without any clear reason, it might indicate the liver is not functioning properly.

Easy Bruising Or Bleeding

The liver produces proteins needed for blood clotting. Its failure may lead to frequent nosebleeds or easy bruising.

Poor Appetite And Weight Loss

Sudden loss of appetite, failure to thrive or weight loss can be a sign of liver illness in children.

Itchy Skin (Pruritus)

Persistent, unexplained itching might be due to bile salts accumulating under the skin.

Behavioral Changes Or Confusion

In advanced liver disease, toxins can affect brain function, causing irritability or confusion.

Swelling In Legs And Ankles

Liver issues may cause fluid retention, leading to puffiness in the lower limbs.

Vomiting Blood Or Blood In Stool

A very serious sign which could mean bleeding from varices (enlarged veins) due to portal hypertension.

ALSO READ: Doctor Lists Warning Signs Of Liver Disease You Shouldn't Ignore

ALSO READ: Doctor Lists Common Risk Factors For Liver Damage And Ways To Avoid Them