Have you heard of the news about a student who died due to acute liver failure? It was sad news and it struck me that liver failure or damage often catch us unaware. We overlook the signs of our liver crying out and only realise it when it is too late. 

Following the news, Shalini also kept nagging Dollah on his unhealthy diet and his negligence for his liver health. 

Liver failure occurs gradually over many years, but acute liver failure can be triggered rapidly and be deadly as fast as within 48 hours. Liver failure or damage can be very difficult to detect, so together with Romeo, I’ve compiled the signs potential liver damage you should watch out for so that you don’t leave it to late!

60% (31% of overall population) of Malaysians who are obese or overweight are at risk from fatty liver!

Only 10% of Malaysians who are at risk of liver failure have been diagnosed!

Swollen & painful abdomen

Jaundice (Yellowish skin and eyes)

Dark coloured urine

Skin irritation or liver skin

Bloody or tar-coloured stool

Nausea and vomiting

Loss of appetite

Exhaustion or fatigue

Easily bruised or bleed

Prolonged Diarrhoea

Common causes of liver failure

Shalini further insisted that we should make aware of the common causes of liver failure, so that Dollah and others would know what to take note of. So here’s Romeo’s advice:

Disease-based Causes:
- Hepatitis A, B, C
- Cirrhosis
- Hemochromatosis
- Cancer

Diet & Lifestyle based:
- Long-term alcohol consumption
- Malnutrition
- Fatty liver
- Reaction to medicines
- Ingestion of poisonous mushrooms

“So take care of your health, Dollah. All of us promised to grow old and healthy together, didn’t we?”

And you, too! Health is virtue, so keep yourself safe and healthy at all times - you can also read more here on how to prevent Tuberculosis, the #1 Killer Infectious Disease in Malaysia, or on the 5 Common Animal-Borne Diseases in Malaysia!

What other causes of liver damage have you heard of? Is your liver healthy? Share your thoughts with me in the comments below!