Symptoms of Liver Disease in Children
Learn the common symptoms of liver disease in children, including jaundice, fatigue, poor growth, and abdominal swelling. Early detection is key to effective treatment and long-term liver health in kids.
Written by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 21st Aug, 2025
As a parent, your child’s health is your top priority. Liver disease in children can be concerning, but early detection and proper care can make a big difference. This article will help you understand the common symptoms of liver disease in children, what causes them, and when to seek medical help.
What is Liver Disease in Children?
The liver is a vital organ that helps digest food, remove toxins, and store energy. When the liver isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to liver disease. In children, liver problems can be caused by infections, genetic conditions, or other health issues.
Common Symptoms of Liver Disease in Children
Liver disease symptoms in children can vary depending on the cause and severity. Here are some key signs to watch for:
1. Jaundice (Yellowing of Skin and Eyes)
One of the most noticeable signs of liver disease.
The skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow due to a buildup of bilirubin (a waste product).
Newborns may have mild jaundice, but if it persists beyond two weeks, consult a doctor.
2. Pale or Light-Coloured Stools
Healthy stools are brown due to bile (a liver secretion).
If stools are pale, chalky, or grey, it may indicate a liver or bile duct problem.
3. Dark Urine
Urine that is dark yellow or brown can be a sign of excess bilirubin.
Unlike dehydration (which also causes dark urine), this does not improve with increased water intake.
4. Swollen Belly (Ascites)
Fluid buildup in the abdomen can make the belly look swollen.
The child may also have discomfort or pain in the stomach.
Consult Top Specialists If You’ve Any Of These Symptoms
5. Poor Growth or Weight Loss
The liver helps process nutrients, so liver disease can lead to slow growth.
Children may not gain weight as expected or lose weight without an obvious reason.
6. Itchy Skin (Pruritus)
Bile buildup can cause severe itching, especially on hands and feet.
The child may scratch frequently, leading to skin irritation.
7. Fatigue and Weakness
Children with liver disease may feel unusually tired or weak.
They may lack energy for normal activities.
8. Easy Bruising or Bleeding
The liver produces proteins needed for blood clotting.
If the liver is damaged, children may bruise easily or have frequent nosebleeds.
9. Loss of Appetite and Nausea
Children may refuse food or vomit frequently.
Persistent nausea can lead to dehydration and malnutrition.
10. Behavioural Changes (Confusion or Irritability)
In severe cases, toxins can affect the brain, leading to confusion, irritability, or sleepiness.
This requires immediate medical attention.
What Causes Liver Disease in Children?
Some common causes include:
Infections (Hepatitis A, B, or C)
Genetic conditions (like Wilson’s disease or Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency)
Bile duct problems (Biliary atresia, a condition in newborns)
Metabolic disorders (Galactosemia, Tyrosinemia)
Medications or toxins (Overuse of certain medicines can harm the liver)
When to See a Doctor?
If your child shows any of these symptoms, especially jaundice, dark urine, or pale stools, consult a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis can prevent complications.
How is Liver Disease Diagnosed?
Doctors may recommend:
Blood tests (to check liver function)
Ultrasound or MRI (to examine the liver)
Liver biopsy (in some cases, a small tissue sample is taken for testing)
Tips for Managing Liver Disease in Children
1. Follow the Doctor’s Advice: Medications and treatments must be taken as prescribed.
2. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet with limited fats and sugars supports liver health.
3. Hydration: Ensure your child drinks enough water.
4. Avoid Certain Medications: Some over-the-counter drugs (like acetaminophen in high doses) can harm the liver.
5. Vaccinations: Ensure your child is vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B.
When to Seek Emergency Care?
If your child has:
Severe abdominal pain
Extreme drowsiness or confusion
Uncontrolled vomiting or bleeding
Difficulty breathing
Seek emergency medical help immediately.
Conclusion
Liver disease in children can be serious, but with early detection and proper care, many conditions can be managed effectively. If you notice any unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor.
If you suspect your child may have liver disease, Apollo24|7 offers expert paediatric liver care. Schedule a consultation or diagnostic test today for peace of mind.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists If You’ve Any Of These Symptoms
Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Ashita Kuruvilla
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
KVC CLINIC, Kolkata
Dr. Harshendra Jaiswal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine)
Kolkata
108 DHANA DHANVANTARI Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. D Bhanu Prakash
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Ashita Kuruvilla
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
KVC CLINIC, Kolkata
Dr. Harshendra Jaiswal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine)
Kolkata
108 DHANA DHANVANTARI Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. D Bhanu Prakash
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
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