Updated on 1 Dec 2025
The liver is the only organ in the human body to perform around 500 diverse functions! It is an extremely high-throughput organ capable of performing remarkable biological activities.
The liver performs important functions like detoxification, protein synthesis, hormone production, glycogen storage, cholesterol synthesis and breakdown of insulin, among others. Thus, it goes without saying that a disease of the liver can wreak havoc with a person's physical and mental well-being.
What is a liver disease?
When the liver becomes damaged or does not work properly, it is called liver disease. The condition can be mild at first, but it can get worse over time if not treated. Some people may have liver disease for years without realising it, because early signs are often easy to miss.
Diseases of the liver
More than 100 different types of diseases can affect the liver. Of them, the most common are:
- Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver caused by viruses, toxins like alcohol, autoimmunity and heredity.
- Alcoholic liver disease: Due to overconsumption of alcohol
- Fatty liver: It occurs when fat builds up in the liver.
- Cirrhosis: This is serious scarring of the liver from long-term damage
- Liver cancer: This can develop in people who have cirrhosis or other liver problems.
- Primary sclerosing cholangitis: Inflammatory disease of the bile duct
- Gilbert's syndrome: A genetic disorder affecting bilirubin synthesis
What are the stages of liver damage?
Liver damage often happens in stages. At first, fat builds up in the liver (fatty liver). This can then cause inflammation (hepatitis), where the organ becomes swollen. Over time, the liver may become scarred, leading to fibrosis. If the scarring becomes severe, it is called cirrhosis. This condition is very serious because the liver cannot repair itself after so much scarring. If cirrhosis continues, it may lead to liver failure or liver cancer.
What are the causes of liver disease?
Liver disease can be caused due to many factors, including:
- Drinking too much alcohol over a long time
- Viral infections like hepatitis
- Being overweight or having type 2 diabetes
- Certain medicines or toxic substances
- Problems with the immune system attacking the liver
- Inherited conditions
What are the first signs and symptoms of liver disease?
In the early stages, many people do not notice anything wrong. However, some of the first signs can include:
- Feeling very tired
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling sick or vomiting
- Pain or discomfort in the top right side of your tummy
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (this is called jaundice)
- Itchy skin
- Dark urine
These symptoms can also be caused by other health problems, so it is best to see a doctor if you notice them.
What are the signs and symptoms of later-stage liver disease?
As liver disease gets worse, the symptoms usually become more serious. Later-stage signs can include:
- Swelling in the tummy or legs (fluid build-up)
- Bruising or bleeding easily
- Confusion or memory problems (because toxins build up in the brain)
- Extreme tiredness
- Weight loss and muscle weakness
- Severe yellowing of the skin and eyes
These later-stage symptoms are often linked to cirrhosis or liver failure. They need urgent medical help.
How do you test for liver disease?
Doctors have different ways to test for liver disease. Usually, they start by asking about your symptoms and medical history. They may do:
- Blood tests: To see if the liver is functioning properly and look for signs of inflammation or infection
- Ultrasound or other scans: To look at the liver and see if there is any scarring or damage
- Liver biopsy: In some cases, doctors take some tissue from the liver to examine under a microscope
- FibroScan: This is a special scan that checks how stiff or scarred the liver is
These tests help doctors find out what type of liver disease you have and how serious it is. Many people use health insurance plans to pay for the cost of liver tests. Blood tests, scans and liver biopsies can be expensive, and not everyone can afford them on their own. A health insurance plan pays for some or all of these tests, so you can get checked without worrying about huge medical bills.
How do you treat liver disease?
Treatment for liver disease depends on the underlying cause. For fatty liver, lifestyle changes like losing weight, eating a balanced diet and regular exercise can significantly improve the organ's health. In cases of alcohol-related liver disease, the most crucial step is to completely stop alcohol consumption. Hepatitis treatment involves antiviral or other medications that can reduce liver damage and manage the infection. Autoimmune liver diseases are typically managed with immunosuppressive drugs that help reduce the immune system’s attack on the liver. For advanced liver conditions like cirrhosis, treatment focuses on preventing further damage, managing complications, and, in severe cases, considering a liver transplant.
Liver disease treatment can sometimes be costly, especially for older people. If you have parents who might need treatment, you could look into medical insurance for parents. This policy can help pay for doctor visits, medicines or even a liver transplant if needed.
Liver disease prevention tips
It is easier to prevent liver disease than to treat it. Here are some helpful tips:
- Drink alcohol in moderation or not at all
- Eat a balanced diet with a lot of fruit and vegetables
- Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid sharing needles and practise safe sex to prevent hepatitis
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B if you are at risk
- Have regular check-ups if you feel you have risk factors for liver disease
Conclusion
Liver disease is common, but many people do not know they have it until it becomes serious. The best way to look after your liver is to lead a healthy lifestyle. If you have signs of any liver condition, immediately seek medical help because delaying treatment can make the situation worse.
While preventive measures can reduce health risks, illnesses can still occur. If you are looking for a way to deal with health emergencies, we can help you with that. Get expert advice on health insurance plans by filling out the form on this page. You will get tailored policy suggestions and solutions to pick the ideal insurance plan.
FAQs
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Can liver disease be cured?
Some liver diseases can be cured, especially if found early. Others can be controlled with treatment and healthy habits.
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How long can you live with liver disease?
It depends on the type of liver disease and how early it is treated. Many people live a normal life if they get the right treatment.
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Is liver disease painful?
Some liver diseases cause pain, while others do not. As the condition gets worse, pain and discomfort can increase.
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What foods help maintain liver health?
Fruits, vegetables, wholegrains and lean proteins help the liver stay healthy. Avoid too much sugar, salt and fatty foods.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.