What Is Liver Failure? Liver failure happens when large parts of the liver become damaged and stop working. It may be caused by long-term conditions like cirrhosis or hepatitis, or it may result from a sudden injury, such as a drug overdose or infection.

Regardless of the cause, liver failure means the liver can’t keep up with the demands of the body. When that happens, symptoms begin to appear. This can lead to serious health problems—even death if not treated quickly.¹

Liver failure can develop slowly over time (chronic) or come on suddenly (acute). Either way, recognizing the warning signs early can help you get the care you need.

Early Signs of Liver Failure

At first, symptoms may be mild or easy to overlook. ² These early signs include:

1. Fatigue

You may feel extremely tired even after getting rest. This happens because the liver can’t properly remove waste from the body, which affects energy levels.

2. Nausea and Loss of Appetite

You might feel sick to your stomach or not feel like eating. Food may become unappealing, and weight loss can follow.

3. Abdominal Discomfort

Some people experience pain or a dull ache in the upper right side of the belly, where the liver is located.

4. Weakness

A general feeling of being unwell or weak may develop as liver function declines.

Advanced Symptoms of Liver Failure

As the liver becomes more damaged, symptoms become more noticeable and serious.³

5. Jaundice

This is when the skin and eyes turn yellow. It’s caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a substance the liver normally processes and removes.

6. Swelling in the Abdomen or Legs

Fluid may build up in the belly (ascites) or legs (edema), causing swelling and discomfort.

7. Confusion or Memory Problems

Liver failure can lead to a buildup of toxins in the blood that affect the brain. This may cause confusion, forgetfulness, trouble focusing, or changes in personality. This condition is called hepatic encephalopathy.

8. Dark Urine and Pale Stools

Urine may turn dark yellow or brown, while bowel movements may appear pale or clay-colored due to changes in bile flow.

9. Bleeding or Bruising Easily

The liver helps make proteins that allow your blood to clot. When it’s not working, you may bleed more easily or develop bruises without injury.

10. Itchy Skin

Ongoing liver problems can cause intense itching that doesn’t go away, even without a rash.

Causes of Liver Failure

Common causes of chronic liver failure include:⁴

Hepatitis B or C
Alcohol abuse
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Cirrhosis
Genetic liver diseases

Acute liver failure may be caused by:⁵

Acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose
Certain medications or herbal supplements
Toxins (like poisonous mushrooms)
Viral infections (like hepatitis A or E)

When to Seek Medical Help

Liver failure is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know experiences any of the following, get medical help immediately:

Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Confusion or disorientation
Severe belly swelling
Sudden bleeding
Vomiting blood or passing black stools

Even mild symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or loss of appetite should not be ignored if they persist.

Final Thoughts

Liver failure can be silent at first, but the signs will grow stronger as the damage worsens. If you notice any changes in how you feel—especially if you have a history of liver disease—talk to your doctor right away.