When the liver becomes swollen due to various diseases, it can manifest pain in several parts of the body. The liver, located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, plays a crucial role in metabolism, detoxification, and storage of nutrients. When it becomes inflamed or enlarged (a condition known as hepatomegaly), it can cause discomfort and pain that radiates to other areas. Here are the main parts of the body where you might feel pain if the liver is swollen due to diseases:
- Upper Right Abdomen: This is the most direct area where pain from a swollen liver is felt. The liver itself is located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, just beneath the rib cage. When it enlarges, it can stretch the capsule surrounding it, causing a dull, aching pain in this region. Patients often describe it as a feeling of fullness or heaviness in the right upper abdomen.
- Right Shoulder or Back: The liver is anatomically close to the diaphragm and can irritate it when enlarged. This irritation can cause referred pain that is felt in the right shoulder or back. This type of pain is known as referred pain and occurs because the same nerves supply both the shoulder and the liver area.
- Chest: In some cases, particularly if the liver enlargement is severe or there are associated complications like fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites), the pressure from the swollen liver can push upwards, causing discomfort in the chest area. This can sometimes mimic the symptoms of heart-related issues.
- Abdominal Swelling: When the liver is diseased, it may fail to produce enough proteins such as albumin, leading to fluid retention in the abdomen (ascites). This can cause abdominal swelling and discomfort, often accompanied by a feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen.
- Generalized Malaise: Beyond specific areas of pain, liver diseases can cause generalized symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and a general feeling of malaise. This can be due to the liver’s role in processing toxins and nutrients; when it is compromised, these functions are impaired, affecting overall well-being.
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) is another common sign of liver disease. It occurs when there is an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream due to the liver’s inability to properly process it. While jaundice itself is not painful, it often accompanies liver conditions that cause pain and discomfort.
In summary, pain from a swollen liver due to disease is primarily localized to the upper right abdomen but can radiate to the right shoulder or back. It may also manifest as chest discomfort or abdominal swelling. General symptoms such as fatigue and jaundice can also accompany liver disease, highlighting the broad impact that liver health has on the body’s overall function and comfort. Early detection and treatment of liver diseases are crucial to preventing progression and alleviating these symptoms.
By Healthline