There are several known liver diseases that often have similar effects on the body. Some of the most common conditions that affect the liver include hepatitis and cirrhosis. Nevertheless, only a comprehensive liver function test can precisely reveal any problems with this vital organ. Here are a few common symptoms caregivers need to look for.
Jaundice
One of the most common symptoms of liver disease is jaundice, which refers to the change in pigmentation of the skin. People with moderate to severe forms of jaundice may turn noticeably yellow, especially on the face and upper body. Additionally, the feces and urine of aging adults with jaundice may have abnormal colors.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional senior home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Changes in the Eyes
The white part of the eye will often look yellow when a senior has liver disease. Small bumps on the eyelids are often signs of a buildup of fat in the body, which is another common sign of liver disease. Some people with liver disease may also find their eyes become dry. Liver disease is often accompanied by problems with night vision.
Weight Gain & Loss
Seniors who are diagnosed with fatty liver disease will likely gain weight. This condition causes an excessive accumulation of fat in the body. Therefore, it may be difficult to maintain a steady weight even with routine exercise and a healthy diet. By contrast, other types of liver disease can lead to abrupt weight loss due to an imbalance in the digestion of various nutrients besides just fat.
Insulin Resistance
One of the main functions of the liver is to regulate the amount of glucose and other complex substances in the bloodstream. People who have compromised livers might develop insulin resistance, which can in turn disrupt the absorption and use of glucose. In fact, there’s a significant correlation between liver disease and type 2 diabetes. Seniors with insulin resistance may feel fatigued and develop spontaneous cravings for sugary foods or drinks.
Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
Swelling
Edema is a medical term that describes another common symptom of liver disease. This word refers to the buildup of bodily fluids underneath the skin. More specifically, individuals who have liver disease may develop extreme swelling in their feet and legs. However, edema in the limbs may also be caused by kidney failure and other severe conditions.
Skin Changes
Changes in the skin can be caused by a number of diseases. Liver problems can often cause seniors to develop a purple rash on the lower legs that doesn’t respond to topical treatments. If you’re worried about liver disease in your loved one, check his or her nail color, as changes often appear there first. Bile buildup in the body can also cause itchy skin. Doctors aren’t sure why, but many people with liver disease find their hands and feet itch at night.
If you suspect your parent has liver disease, make sure he or she sees the doctor right away. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of elder care Oshkosh, WI, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at 920-717-1767 today.