29 February 2024 , 20:00
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Around two million people in the UK alone are affected by liver disease, which can easily go unnoticed.
Many believe only those suffering with alcoholism are at risk of developing the condition - but this is not strictly true. While alcohol misuse is one of the main risk factors for liver disease - so is obesity and an undiagnosed hepatitis.
The NHS warns you don't have to drink 'excessive amounts' of alcohol to risk damaging yourself, pointing out that drinking 'just over the recommended levels' can also be harmful. Most people associate liver failure with jaundice - a condition that causes a person's skin to yellow. However, a side-effect your partner may pick up could also be a red flag.
There are many different types of liver disease which are associated with different causes. The most common being alcohol-related liver disease followed by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (caused by obesity). Most types of liver disease don't actually cause any side-effects in the early stages. But according to the NHS, a loss of sex drive (commonly referred to as libido) may be a symptom of cirrhosis. This is where the liver has already become damaged and scarred as a result of liver disease.
Of course, experiencing this symptom doesn't necessarily mean you have liver disease. Losing your sex drive is linked with conditions such as anxiety, depression, erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, and long-term conditions such as diabetes and cancer. Certain medications including antidepressants and tablets for high blood pressure may also be impacting your sexual appetite.
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If you're concerned about a reduced libido or medications you're taking, it's important to make an appointment with a GP. Again, it is unlikely this will be as a result of liver disease - especially if you're not at high risk. Other cirrhosis symptoms to look out for include:
- Feeling very tired and weak all of the time
- Yellow skin and whites of the eyes (Aka jaundice)
- Itchy skin
- Feeling/ Being sick
- Loss of appetite. This may lead to weight loss.
Healthy lifestyle changes can help with certain types of liver disease, such as quitting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B if you're at high risk. For those suffering with cirrhosis, you may need a liver transplant. If you're struggling with liver disease, you can get support here.