The liver plays a vital role in the body, carrying out essential functions such as detoxifying the blood, producing bile, and storing important nutrients.
But when the liver isn’t working as it should, it can trigger pain or discomfort in different areas. These warning signs shouldn’t be ignored. Below are the key regions where liver issues may show up as physical symptoms.
1. Discomfort in the Upper Right Abdomen
Pain located in the upper right section of the abdomen is one of the clearest indicators of liver trouble. Since the liver sits just below the diaphragm on the right side, any inflammation, damage, or swelling can lead to noticeable discomfort here.
This pain might feel like a dull ache or even a sharp, stabbing sensation. Conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, or a fatty liver are often responsible for these symptoms.
2. Pain in the Right Shoulder or Upper Back
Because the liver is so close to the diaphragm, liver issues can cause pain that radiates to the upper right back or even the right shoulder.
This type of discomfort is known as “referred pain” — the brain perceives pain from the liver as coming from other areas. People with chronic liver disease or liver masses frequently report this symptom.
3. Widespread Abdominal Pain
Sometimes, liver problems don’t stay confined to one spot. Instead, people may feel a general ache across the entire abdominal area.
This is often the result of fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), or because inflammation has started to affect nearby organs. This kind of bloating and pressure is typically seen in more advanced liver conditions like cirrhosis.
4. Itching Skin and Aching Joints
Liver dysfunction doesn’t just affect internal systems — it can show up on the skin and in the joints too. A condition called cholestasis, where bile flow becomes blocked, often causes severe itching, especially on the hands and feet.
Toxin buildup due to poor liver function can also lead to joint pain or inflammation, known as hepatic arthritis.
5. Headaches and Ongoing Fatigue
Though not localized pain, headaches and intense fatigue are common signs of liver issues. When the liver fails to filter out toxins properly, these toxins can accumulate and affect brain function, resulting in brain fog, confusion, and constant tiredness.
This is known as hepatic encephalopathy and can also cause persistent headaches and an overall sense of poor health.
When to Seek Help
Pain tied to liver problems can appear in several places — from your abdomen and back to your joints and even your head.
If you notice ongoing pain in these areas along with symptoms like yellowing skin or eyes, swollen abdomen, exhaustion, or mental confusion, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider. Getting an early diagnosis can help manage liver disease and prevent more serious health problems down the road.