The liver performs numerous functions, including detoxification, nutrient processing, and the production of substances essential for overall health. When the liver’s function is compromised due to disease, it can affect various bodily systems. Dizziness or lightheadedness can be a symptom of liver disease, arising from several underlying physiological changes.
Mechanisms Linking Liver Disease and Dizziness
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a significant cause of dizziness in liver disease. The liver can no longer effectively remove toxins from the blood, such as ammonia. Ammonia, a byproduct of protein digestion, builds up and reaches the brain, disrupting normal brain function. This can lead to confusion, disorientation, changes in personality, and drowsiness.
Fluid and electrolyte imbalances also contribute to dizziness. Liver disease can disrupt fluid balance, leading to fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites) or swelling in the legs. Electrolyte levels, such as sodium (hyponatremia) and potassium (hypokalemia), can become abnormal. These imbalances affect nerve and muscle function, causing lightheadedness or dizziness.
Anemia, a reduction in red blood cells, commonly occurs with chronic liver disease. This can happen due to gastrointestinal bleeding, impaired red blood cell production, or nutritional deficiencies. With fewer red blood cells to transport oxygen, the body’s tissues, including the brain, receive less oxygen, leading to fatigue, weakness, and dizziness.
Low blood pressure, including orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing), is another contributing factor. Advanced liver disease can affect blood circulation, leading to systemic hypotension. This can result in dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when moving from a sitting or lying position to standing.
Medications prescribed for liver disease or its complications may also induce dizziness as a side effect. Some drugs, like those for hepatic encephalopathy, list dizziness among their potential adverse effects.
Accompanying Symptoms of Liver Disease
Dizziness rarely occurs in isolation with liver disease; it typically appears alongside other signs of impaired liver function.
Individuals often experience persistent fatigue and weakness. Nausea and vomiting are common digestive symptoms associated with liver compromise.
Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, is a common sign of liver disease. Changes in waste elimination are also observed, such as dark urine and pale or clay-colored stools.
Abdominal pain, often in the upper right side, and abdominal swelling (ascites) are common. Easy bruising or bleeding can occur. Persistent itchy skin may also be present.
Cognitive changes, such as confusion, memory problems, or difficulty concentrating, can also occur. Other symptoms may include muscle cramps, spider angiomas, or blotchy red palms. Sleep disturbances may also be present.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
Seek medical evaluation for dizziness or lightheadedness, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional if dizziness is sudden, severe, or disrupts daily activities. Dizziness with fainting or loss of consciousness requires immediate medical attention.
If dizziness occurs alongside common liver disease symptoms like jaundice, persistent fatigue, unexplained bruising, or abdominal swelling, seek prompt medical advice. Individuals with a known liver condition experiencing new or worsening dizziness should contact their doctor without delay. Vomiting blood, very dark or black stools, or severe abdominal pain with dizziness are serious signs requiring urgent medical care.
A healthcare professional can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including blood tests to assess liver function and identify imbalances. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or CT scans, may also be used to visualize the liver and detect structural abnormalities.