Inflamed liver?

[Matt M.]

I had high AST/ALT levels during routine blood work back in 2007. Yearly tests since then have all returned within normal ranges. I have a history of heavy binge  drinking. Up until this weekend, I had not had any alcohol for two years and prior to quitting altogether I had cut back significantly following the previously mentioned abnormal blood test results. I had two beers and a glass of champagne at a family reunion on Saturday. I very much regret this and will not do so again. Since this weekend I have been experiencing periodic pains in both my upper back and upper abdomen. I am familiar with symptoms of liver issues and know these symptoms can be a sign of problems. When I press my hand firmly into where my liver is located I do not experience any sharp pains and the periodic pains I do get are dull and quick to pass. I am wondering if these pains could be partially psychosomatic based on my guilt and regret and partially stress related based on my concern that I have damaged myself as it seems that if they were being caused by an inflamed liver I would be able to recreate the pain when pressing on it. Any thoughts?  

[mikesimon]

I'm not sure about Milk Thistle. I don't think it can hurt but I'm not convinced that it is much of a benefit.

I really don't know about red palms other than they can be a sign of liver disease.

I'm sorry I cannot be of more help.

If you're really worried it might be a good idea to see a specialist.

Good luck,
Mike

[Matt M.]

You are very kind, Mike. I am curious to ask a question regarding liver palms. Do you know if liver palms are highly pronounced and constant or do liver palms come and go throughout the day. Sometimes I look at my hands and they look more pinkish red than other times. I would not think they ever looked abnormal if it wasn't that I have been searching the internet for liver disease symptoms. I know I should let this go and simply eat healthy and most importantly stay off the alcohol. However, that is harder to do than one might think. Lastly, any thoughts on a daily supplement of milk thistle? THANK YOU!

[mikesimon]

I wish you all the best.

Mike

[Matt M.]

Thank you! I would also assume I would have other symptoms beyond subtle pain if my liver was inflamed to the point of causing pain. My appetite is strong and I have no observable yellowing of the skin or changes in my urine. I do have some nausea, but I think this has as much to do with the anxiety as it does with my liver. I only notice the nausea when I think about my concerns. If I do not feel better in a week I will make an appointment with my doctor.

[mikesimon]

I am not in the medical field in any capacity other than a patient who had hepatitis c and was transplanted in June 2000. So keep that in mind when you read this post.

My opinion is that the 2 beers and 1 glass of champagne did not inflame your liver to the point where it would cause you pain. I have no idea about your physiology, the condition of your liver or whether you are extremely sensitive to alcohol so I really don't have much to go on other than my personal experience. My understanding of the typical "liver pain" that patients complain about is that it is due to the liver swelling and distending the capsule that surrounds the liver - Glisson's Capsule. The Glisson's Capsule does have nerve endings but the liver does not. I just think it's unlikely that 3 drinks would inflame your liver enough to cause the degree of swelling to cause pain. I do believe that psychological factors can influence our perception of pain or discomfort and that could be at play here. If I were you I would try to forgive myself for having the drinks and relax and see if your symptoms don't abate.

If you really want to know the condition of your liver you might want to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist or even better a hepatologist. Some of the tests that reflect liver function are prothrombin time (clotting time), albumin, bilirubin, platelet count and liver enzymes. The gold standard for evaluating the condition of the liver is the liver biopsy but a qualified physician can advise you about which tests or procedures are appropriate

Good luck,
Mike