Causes and Symptoms of Enlarged Liver
Know about the enlarged liver, causes, symptoms and diagnosis. Learn how to keep the liver healthy and more.
Introduction
An enlarged liver, also known as hepatomegaly, is a condition where the liver grows larger than its normal size. The liver is a vital organ responsible for filtering toxins, aiding digestion, storing energy, and producing proteins. When it becomes enlarged, it may indicate an underlying health issue that needs attention.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an enlarged liver, don’t worry, many causes are treatable with timely care. In this article, we’ll discuss the possible causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical help.
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What Causes an Enlarged Liver?
Several factors can lead to liver enlargement. Some common causes include:
1. Fatty Liver Disease
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): Excess fat buildup in the liver due to obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
Alcoholic fatty liver disease: Caused by excessive alcohol consumption, leading to fat accumulation and liver damage.
2. Infections
Hepatitis (A, B, C, D, E): Viral infections that inflame the liver.
Mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr virus): Can temporarily enlarge the liver.
3. Liver Cirrhosis
Long-term liver damage from alcohol, hepatitis, or fatty liver can cause scarring (cirrhosis), making the liver appear enlarged in early stages.
4. Heart and Blood Flow Problems
Congestive heart failure: Weak heart function leads to fluid buildup, increasing liver size.
Budd-Chiari syndrome: Blocked liver veins cause swelling.
5. Cancer and Tumors
Liver cancer or metastatic cancer (spread from other organs).
Benign liver tumors (like hemangiomas).
6. Genetic and Metabolic Disorders
Hemochromatosis (excess iron storage).
Wilson’s disease (copper buildup).
Gaucher’s disease (fatty substance accumulation).
7. Medications and Toxins
Certain drugs (like acetaminophen overdose) and toxins can harm the liver.
Symptoms of an Enlarged Liver
Sometimes, an enlarged liver may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, if symptoms appear, they may include:
Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen.
Fatigue and weakness.
Nausea or vomiting.
Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice).
Swelling in legs or abdomen (edema or ascites).
Dark urine and pale stools.
Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis.
How Is an Enlarged Liver Diagnosed?
Doctors may use the following tests:
Physical exam (checking liver size by pressing on the abdomen).
Blood tests (liver function tests, viral hepatitis screening).
Imaging tests (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI).
Liver biopsy (in rare cases, to check for tissue damage).
If you need a liver function test or consultation, you can easily book a test or doctor’s appointment on Apollo 24|7.
How Can You Manage an Enlarged Liver?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, but some general tips include:
1. Healthy Diet
Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive salt.
Reduce fatty and fried foods.
2. Limit Alcohol
If fatty liver is alcohol-related, cutting out alcohol is crucial.
3. Exercise Regularly
Helps reduce liver fat and improve overall health.
4. Manage Underlying Conditions
Control diabetes, cholesterol, and obesity with medical guidance.
Take prescribed medications for hepatitis or other liver diseases.
5. Avoid Unnecessary Medications
Some drugs (like high-dose painkillers) can harm the liver—consult a doctor before taking them.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek immediate medical help if you notice:
Severe abdominal pain.
Persistent jaundice.
Confusion or drowsiness (signs of liver failure).
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications like liver failure or cirrhosis.
Final Thoughts
An enlarged liver is often a sign of an underlying condition rather than a disease itself. By identifying the cause early and making lifestyle changes, many people can improve their liver health.
Consult General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Consult General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Dr. Gaddam Manoj
General Practitioner
1 Years • MBBS
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Aaradhya clinic, Hyderabad
Dr Suseela
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5 Years • MBBS
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Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Sahana B
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Khushi multi-speciality hospital, Koppal
Dr G Prathyusha
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS DNB (Family medicine), CCEBDM (Diabetology), PGDGM (Geriatrics), Primary care Rheumatologist.
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Dr Kaushik Chakraborty, Kolkata
