A Canadian doctor warns that four often-ignored symptoms could signal liver damage. Early diagnosis is key—here’s what to watch out for.
Expert Urges Awareness of Subtle Symptoms
A prominent Canadian physician is sounding the alarm about four commonly overlooked symptoms that may point to liver damage. Dr. Joseph Salhab, widely known as The Stomach Doc on social media, issued a video warning earlier this week urging Canadians to take persistent abdominal discomfort and related symptoms seriously.
Mild Pain May Mask Serious Conditions
Dr. Salhab’s first point of concern is pain in the right upper abdomen, particularly when it lingers or worsens. “This kind of pain could indicate hepatitis, which is inflammation of the liver,” he explained. “It may be caused by viral infections, autoimmune conditions, or even alcohol toxicity.” He urged individuals to seek medical attention immediately if the pain is unrelenting.
Nausea Often Misattributed to Minor Illness
Another sign to watch is unexplained nausea or vomiting, especially after drinking alcohol. While many dismiss this as indigestion or food poisoning, Salhab cautions that it could signal liver distress. “If you find it difficult to keep food down or your symptoms worsen post-alcohol intake, that’s a red flag,” he said.
Swelling and Bloating Signal Fluid Build-Up
The third warning sign is swelling in the abdomen or legs, often a result of fluid accumulation due to liver dysfunction. This condition, known as ascites, occurs when the liver fails to regulate fluid balance. “Swelling of the belly or even the lower limbs can often go unnoticed or blamed on other issues,” Salhab noted.
Yellowing of Skin and Eyes Indicates Urgency
The most visibly alarming symptom, he said, is jaundice—yellowing of the skin and eyes, including the whites (scleral icterus). “This is a severe indicator of liver dysfunction and should prompt an immediate visit to a healthcare provider,” said Salhab, adding that delayed treatment can have fatal consequences.
Canadian Health Advice Aligns With Warning
Health authorities, including the NHS and Canadian Liver Foundation, confirm that early liver damage can be reversed through lifestyle changes, especially reducing alcohol intake, improving diet, and undergoing medical treatment when needed. In extreme cases, a liver transplant may be the only option.
Why This Matters Now
With alcohol consumption and sedentary lifestyles on the rise post-pandemic, liver-related illnesses are becoming more prevalent in Canada. Experts are urging individuals not to ignore early symptoms, especially those with a history of alcohol use or underlying conditions like hepatitis.
What You Can Do
Canadians experiencing persistent upper stomach pain, nausea, bloating, or yellowing eyes should seek medical evaluation immediately. “The sooner we detect liver issues, the better the outcomes,” Dr. Salhab emphasized. “Don’t wait for your body to scream—listen when it whispers.”
