The liver is one of the most important organs in the body, performing key functions such as blood detoxification, bile production, and nutrient storage.

However, when the liver isn’t functioning properly, it can manifest itself through different types of pain and discomfort in various parts of the body.

Main Areas Affected by Liver Problems

Below, we explain the areas where you may experience pain or discomfort when experiencing liver problems.

1. Upper Right Abdomen

Pain in the upper right abdomen is one of the most common symptoms associated with liver problems. The liver is located just below the diaphragm, on the right side of the abdomen, so any inflammation, damage, or enlargement of the liver can cause pain in this region.

This pain can range from a feeling of heaviness or discomfort to a sharp or stabbing pain. Conditions such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or cirrhosis can cause this discomfort.

2. Back and Right Shoulder

Due to the liver’s location and its proximity to the diaphragm’s nerves, liver problems can radiate pain to the back, specifically the upper right side, and even to the right shoulder.

This radiating pain is known as referred pain, as the brain can interpret discomfort from the liver as if it were originating elsewhere in the body. People with chronic liver disease or liver tumors often experience this discomfort in the back or shoulder.