Symptom 15: Gynecomastia: An Unexpected Sign of Liver Damage
Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by the enlargement of breast tissue in males. While it can have various causes, it can also serve as an unexpected sign of liver damage.
Liver damage can disrupt hormone balance in the body, leading to an increase in estrogen levels relative to testosterone. This hormonal imbalance can contribute to the development of gynecomastia. The liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing hormones, and when its function is compromised, it can result in an accumulation of estrogen or a decreased clearance of estrogen from the body.
Gynecomastia associated with liver damage can present as a painless swelling or enlargement of breast tissue in one or both breasts. It may be tender or sensitive to touch and can occur in varying degrees of severity.(15)
