Enlarged liver (hepatomegaly) – how to recognize it?

The liver is one of the most important organs in our body, performing many key functions such as producing bile, storing energy and neutralizing toxins. If you notice that your liver is enlarged, it may be a symptom of various diseases. In this article, you will learn how to recognize an enlarged liver, its causes, and what tests and treatments may be necessary.

Enlarged liver – characteristics. does it hurt?

An enlarged liver, also known as hepatomegaly, is a condition in which the liver becomes larger than its normal size. The liver is located in the upper part of the abdomen, on the right side under the ribs, so it can sometimes feel swollen. In the case of hepatomegaly, the liver may be enlarged to such an extent that it is visible to the naked eye.

As for pain, in the case of an enlarged liver, it is not always accompanied by pain. Patients often do not feel any pain, especially in the early stages. However, if the enlarged liver is caused by inflammation or cancer, it may be accompanied by pain.

Causes of an enlarged liver

There are many different causes that can lead to an enlarged liver. These include:

• Inflammation of the liver, such as viral hepatitis (Hepatitis)
• Fatty liver
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Metabolic diseases such as hemochromatosis or diabetes
• Liver tumors or cancer metastases
• Blood circulation disorders in the liver
• Genetic diseases

It is worth emphasizing that some of these causes can lead to serious health problems, so it is important to quickly diagnose an enlarged liver and identify its source.

How to recognize an enlarged liver? when to see a doctor?

Diagnosing an enlarged liver usually requires consultation with a doctor. There are several symptoms that may suggest hepatomegaly:

• Swelling or enlargement of the abdomen
• Feeling of fullness after eating
• Pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Digestive problems
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor. The specialist can conduct a thorough interview, perform a physical examination and order the necessary diagnostic tests.

Enlarged liver – what tests?

To diagnose the cause of an enlarged liver, your doctor may order various tests, including:

• Blood tests, including an assessment of liver enzyme levels
• Imaging tests such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Liver biopsy to assess the structure and condition of the liver tissue
• Genetic tests in case of suspected genetic diseases

Based on the results of these tests, your doctor will be able to determine the cause of your liver enlargement and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment of an enlarged liver

Treatment of hepatomegaly depends on its cause. If your enlarged liver is the result of a viral infection, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications. In the case of fatty liver disease, lifestyle changes, diet and regular physical activity may be necessary. However, if the cause is cancer, surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy may be necessary.

Your suggestions

If you suspect that you have an enlarged liver or are experiencing any liver-related symptoms, do not delay visiting your doctor. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help prevent serious complications.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about the liver and its health, we recommend reading the following articles:

• “How to take care of your liver – tips and recommendations”
• “Symptoms and treatment of fatty liver disease”
• “Hepatitis C – causes, symptoms, treatment”

Remember that a healthy liver is the key to maintaining overall health, so it is worth taking care of it and checking its condition regularly.