Liver and Kidney Health: When to Seek Medical Attention

Liver and kidney related?

Hello Doctor, I am 23 years old.
For the past few years, I have been experiencing bloating and pain near my left side next to the navel.
I went to a large hospital for examination, and during an abdominal ultrasound, a hepatic hemangioma was found, which only requires regular monitoring (I was due for a follow-up but didn't go due to the pandemic).
I also had an endoscopy that showed mild erosion and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
The bloating had improved and I no longer needed medication to relieve it, but recently it has returned, and I feel like my entire body has a yellow tint (this has persisted for a long time without seeing a doctor).
My sclera appears slightly yellow, and my urine is sometimes cloudy and sometimes normal, with a very dark color (close to tea color), but it returns to normal after drinking water.
I am very concerned that there may be an issue with my liver or kidneys, but I am hesitant to go to the hospital due to the pandemic.
Should I seek medical attention now or wait until after the pandemic to get checked?

Hong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/21

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It is likely not jaundice; it is just bloating.
You can first adjust your diet or consult a clinic for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2021/05/21

More Info

When it comes to understanding liver and kidney health, it is crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms that may indicate a need for medical attention. Based on your description, there are several concerning factors that warrant further evaluation.

Firstly, you mentioned experiencing abdominal pain near the belly button and having been diagnosed with a liver hemangioma, which is typically benign and often requires only regular monitoring. However, the recent resurgence of symptoms such as persistent bloating, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and changes in urine color are significant. Jaundice can indicate elevated bilirubin levels in the blood, which may arise from liver dysfunction or obstruction of bile flow. Given your history of liver issues, this symptom should not be taken lightly.

The changes in your urine, particularly the tea-colored urine, can also be indicative of liver problems, such as hepatitis or other liver diseases, or even kidney issues. Dark urine can result from dehydration, but if it persists despite adequate fluid intake, it could suggest a more serious underlying condition. The fact that your urine fluctuates between normal and dark could indicate intermittent liver or kidney function issues.

Additionally, you mentioned having gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and experiencing bloating. While these symptoms may seem unrelated, they can sometimes be interconnected with liver health, especially if there is an underlying condition affecting digestion or liver function.

Given the current pandemic situation, it is understandable to have concerns about visiting a healthcare facility. However, it is essential to prioritize your health. If you are experiencing jaundice, significant changes in urine color, or persistent abdominal pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention sooner rather than later. Many healthcare facilities have implemented safety measures to protect patients during the pandemic, and telemedicine options may also be available for initial consultations.

In summary, while your previous liver hemangioma may not require immediate concern, the new symptoms you are experiencing—particularly jaundice and changes in urine color—are red flags that should prompt you to seek medical evaluation. Delaying care could lead to complications if there is an underlying liver or kidney issue that needs to be addressed. It is better to err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough assessment and appropriate diagnostic testing. Your health is paramount, and timely intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes.

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