Tamil actor Abhinay, best remembered for his role in the 2002 youth drama Thulluvadho Ilamai, passed away in Chennai on November 10 at the age of 44 after a long battle with liver disease. The actor had been vocal about his health struggles in recent years and had even sought financial help for treatment. His untimely death has once again drawn attention to the growing number of liver-related illnesses in India and why early detection can be lifesaving.
What is liver disease?
The liver is one of the body’s most vital organs, responsible for detoxifying harmful substances, aiding digestion, and storing essential nutrients. When the liver is overburdened due to alcohol, infections, or metabolic conditions, it can lead to liver disease, a term that covers several chronic conditions that progressively damage the liver’s cells.
Medical reports explain that while the liver has a remarkable ability to repair itself, constant strain from toxins, fatty deposits, or infections like hepatitis B or C can cause irreversible scarring known as cirrhosis. Over time, this can lead to liver failure, which can be fatal if not managed in time.
Early symptoms you should never ignore
One of the biggest challenges with liver disease is that it often develops silently. Many patients show no symptoms until the condition becomes severe. However, some early warning signs can help detect trouble before it’s too late. As per Cleveland Clinic, these include:
Persistent fatigue or weakness
Loss of appetite or unexplained nausea
Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen
Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
Dark urine or pale stools
Swelling in the legs or abdomen
Health experts urge people to adopt preventive habits such as limiting alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy diet, getting vaccinated for hepatitis, and undergoing regular liver function tests if they have a family history or lifestyle risks.
