Understanding Common Liver Diseases

Why the Liver Matters

Your liver is one of the hardest-working organs in your body. It helps:

Filter toxins from your blood
Digest fats and nutrients from food
Store vitamins and energy
Fight infections
Regulate blood sugar and cholesterol

As we age, the liver may become more vulnerable to damage — especially from medications, chronic conditions, or lifestyle factors.

Common Liver Conditions in Older Adults

1. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

What it is:
A buildup of fat in the liver not caused by alcohol.

Why it happens:
Often linked to:

Diabetes or prediabetes
High cholesterol
High blood pressure
Being overweight
Sedentary lifestyle

Symptoms (often mild or none):

Fatigue
Mild abdominal discomfort
Unexplained weight changes

Why it matters:
If untreated, NAFLD can progress to inflammation and scarring.

What helps:

Gradual weight loss
Regular physical activity
Balanced diet low in added sugars

2. Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)

What it is:
A more serious form of fatty liver disease that includes liver inflammation and damage.

Symptoms:

Persistent fatigue
Loss of appetite
Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
Swelling in legs or abdomen

Risk factors:

Obesity
Diabetes
Metabolic syndrome
Sleep apnea

Management:

Treat underlying conditions
Weight management
Avoid alcohol
Regular monitoring by a provider

3. Liver Fibrosis

What it is:
Scar tissue forming in the liver due to ongoing inflammation.

Important note:
Fibrosis can occur silently for years.

Possible signs:

Weakness
Loss of appetite
Easy bruising

Good news:
If caught early, fibrosis progression can often be slowed or stopped.

4. Cirrhosis of the Liver

What it is:
Advanced scarring that permanently damages liver function.

Common causes:

Long-term liver disease
Hepatitis infections
Fatty liver disease
Alcohol use
Medication toxicity

Symptoms:

Fluid buildup in abdomen (ascites)
Confusion or memory problems
Easy bleeding or bruising
Severe fatigue
Yellowing of skin/eyes

Why early detection matters:
Treatment focuses on slowing damage and preventing complications.

Warning Signs to Report to Your Doctor

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:

Yellowing of skin or eyes
Persistent fatigue
Swelling in legs or abdomen
Dark urine or pale stools
Easy bruising or bleeding
Confusion or memory changes
Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.

Foods & Habits That Support Liver Health

Limit or Avoid

Added sugars and sugary drinks
Highly processed foods
Excess salt
Alcohol
Trans fats (fried and packaged foods)

Choose More Often

Colorful fruits and vegetables
Whole grains (oats, brown rice, quinoa)
Lean proteins (fish, poultry, beans, eggs)
Healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, avocados)
Plenty of water

Ask your healthcare provider for specific dietary recommendations tailored to you.

Medication Safety for Older Adults

Because the liver processes medications, older adults should:

Avoid mixing medications without guidance
Use over-the-counter pain relievers cautiously
Inform providers about supplements and herbal products
Follow dosing instructions carefully
Always consult with your healthcare provider first before starting any new supplements or making any significant dietary changes

Lifestyle Tips to Protect Your Liver

Maintain a healthy weight
Stay physically active (walking, light strength exercises), as approved by your healthcare provider
Get vaccinated for hepatitis A & B if recommended
Avoid exposure to toxins and chemicals
Attend regular medical checkups and lab tests

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider

Are my medications safe for my liver?
Should I be screened for fatty liver disease?
What lab tests monitor liver health?
How can I safely lose weight to improve liver health?

Key Takeaway

Many liver conditions develop slowly and without symptoms. The good news: early detection and lifestyle changes can make a significant difference, even later in life.

Medical Disclaimer

This resource is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with questions regarding a medical condition, medications, or lifestyle changes. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking care because of information in this guide.

Sources:

This handout is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

This content was created with the assistance of AI. Any AI-generated content was reviewed by a Nurse Practitioner.