Liver Failure Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Understand liver failure, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Learn how this serious condition affects liver function and explore effective management strategies.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 2nd Sep, 2025
The liver is one of the most vital organs in our body, performing essential functions like detoxification, protein synthesis, and digestion. When the liver stops working properly, it can lead to liver failure, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
In this article, we’ll discuss what liver failure is, common symptoms to watch for, possible causes, treatment options and lifestyle changes to support liver health.
What is Liver Failure?
Liver failure occurs when a significant portion of the liver becomes damaged and can no longer function effectively. It can develop suddenly (acute liver failure) or gradually over time (chronic liver failure). If left untreated, liver failure can be life-threatening.
Consult a Top Hepatologist
Symptoms of Liver Failure
Recognizing the early signs of liver failure can help in seeking timely treatment. Symptoms may include:
Early Symptoms:
- Fatigue and weakness – Feeling unusually tired
- Nausea and vomiting – Persistent digestive discomfort
- Loss of appetite – Reduced desire to eat
- Abdominal pain and swelling – Discomfort in the upper right side of the abdome
- Jaundice – Yellowing of the skin and eyes
Advanced Symptoms:
- Confusion or disorientation (Hepatic encephalopathy) – Due to toxin buildup in the brain
- Easy bruising or bleeding – The liver produces clotting factors; damage can lead to bleeding issues
- Dark urine and pale stools – Changes in urine and stool color
- Swelling in legs and ankles (Edema) – Fluid retention due to poor liver function
- If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
Causes of Liver Failure
Liver failure can result from various conditions, including:
1. Chronic Liver Diseases
- Cirrhosis – Long-term liver damage from alcohol abuse, hepatitis, or fatty liver disease.
- Hepatitis B & C – Viral infections that cause liver inflammation.
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) – Fat buildup in the liver due to obesity or diabetes.
2. Acute Liver Failure (Sudden Damage)
Overdose of medications – Excessive use of acetaminophen (paracetamol) or certain antibiotics.- Toxin exposure – Poisonous mushrooms or industrial chemicals.
- Autoimmune hepatitis – The body’s immune system attacks the liver.
- Viral infections (like Hepatitis A & E) – Can cause sudden liver failure in rare cases.
3. Genetic Conditions
- Hemochromatosis – Excess iron buildup in the liver.
- Wilson’s disease – Abnormal copper accumulation in the liver.
Treatment Options for Liver Failure
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of liver damage.
1. Medications & Medical Therapies
- Antiviral drugs – For hepatitis-related liver damage.
- Steroids – For autoimmune hepatitis.
- Lactulose & antibiotics – To manage toxin buildup in the brain (hepatic encephalopathy).
2. Lifestyle Changes
- Stop alcohol consumption – Essential for preventing further damage.
- Healthy diet – Low-salt, high-protein, and balanced meals to support liver function.
- Weight management – Helps reduce fatty liver disease risk.
3. Liver Transplant (In Severe Cases)
If the liver is severely damaged, a liver transplant may be the only option.
How to Keep Your Liver Healthy?
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to protect your liver:
- Limit alcohol intake – Excessive drinking harms liver cells.
- Eat a balanced diet – Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Exercise regularly – Helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces fatty liver risk.
- Get vaccinated – Hepatitis A and B vaccines can prevent infections.
- Avoid unnecessary medications – Always consult a doctor before taking high doses of painkillers.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience persistent symptoms like jaundice, severe abdominal pain, or confusion, seek medical help immediately. Early diagnosis can prevent complications.
Need Expert Advice?
If you suspect liver-related issues, consult a specialist at Apollo 24|7. You can book a consultation or schedule a liver function test (LFT) online for quick and accurate diagnosis.
Final Thoughts
Liver failure is a serious condition, but early detection and proper treatment can improve outcomes. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and staying aware of symptoms, you can protect your liver and overall well-being.
Consult a Top Hepatologist
Consult a Top Hepatologist
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Rajeev Shandil
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
15 Years • MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine), DNB (Gastroenterology)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(125+ Patients)
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Pukhraj Singh Jeji
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
13 Years • MBBS, MD ( Internal Medicine ), DM ( Gastroenterology ), Consultant - Gastroenterology
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
Prof. Dr. Kanhu Charan Das
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
24 Years • MBBS, MD (Medicine) DM (Gastroenterology & Hepatology, CMC, Vellore). Advanced Proceduralist (ERCP, EUS, POEM & ESD) Senior Consultant - Gastroenterologist.
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
(300+ Patients)
Consult a Top Hepatologist
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Rajeev Shandil
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
15 Years • MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine), DNB (Gastroenterology)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(125+ Patients)
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Pukhraj Singh Jeji
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
13 Years • MBBS, MD ( Internal Medicine ), DM ( Gastroenterology ), Consultant - Gastroenterology
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
Prof. Dr. Kanhu Charan Das
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
24 Years • MBBS, MD (Medicine) DM (Gastroenterology & Hepatology, CMC, Vellore). Advanced Proceduralist (ERCP, EUS, POEM & ESD) Senior Consultant - Gastroenterologist.
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
(300+ Patients)
