Ashima Sharda Mahindra • 27 Mar 2025
Chinese Woman Suffers Liver Damage Despite Drinking Purified Water; Here's How
Botched installation means that Liu had been drinking wastewater for the past five years, which led to liver issues
A Chinese woman said despite drinking purified water for the past five years, she suffered liver damage as a worker wrongly installed her water purifier.
According to Liu, the problem was caused by an installer who mixed up pipes at her home in 2020, leading to deteriorating water quality that affected her health. According to the device, which measures the density of TDS - total dissolved solids - a key index for the pureness of water, the figure for the water from the purifier stood at 600, more than double that of tap water.
The botched installation led to the purified water being released into the sewer, but the concentrated water - wastewater from the purifying process—was transformed into a water tap, from which Liu had anticipated she could receive clean water.
The botched installation means that Liu had been drinking wastewater for the past five years, which led to liver issues.
How did wastewater affect Liu’s health?
Liu said it led to her having irregular periods for the past six months while a month ago, and a detailed check-up led to her suffering from liver damage. “I am afraid the wastewater, which contains plenty of chemical materials, might have a bad effect on my health,” Liu was quoted by the South China Morning Post.
How does dirty water lead to liver issues?
According to experts, toxic hepatitis, or liver toxicity, happens when your liver inflames resulting from contact with a harmful substance. Liver inflammation also occurs if you take too much of certain medications or drink too much alcohol. Over time, inflammation causes permanent liver damage.
Signs and symptoms of liver damage
A few signs and symptoms of liver damage include:
- Abdominal pain
- Ascites
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Changes in your urine, especially when it is dark in colour
What causes toxic hepatitis?
According to experts, exposure to a few chemicals - even by drinking water or medications - leads to toxic hepatitis symptoms to develop. Symptoms develop soon after exposure or even develop over weeks or months.
However, doctors say exposure to these substances does not mean you will always develop toxic hepatitis. Every person reacts differently.
What are the risk factors for liver damage?
Anyone can develop toxic hepatitis, and you have an increased risk if you:
- Are female
- Have alcohol use disorder
- Have liver disease, including hepatitis B or C
- Take certain prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs
- Work or are around certain chemicals, like solvents
How do you reduce your risk of liver toxicity?
You can help keep your liver healthy by making healthy lifestyle changes. Even if there is no specific toxic hepatitis diet, doctors suggest eating and drinking healthy foods can help your liver work well. Try to:
- Drink fluids, especially water, to avoid dehydration
- Eat plenty of fibre, including foods like beans and whole grains
- Limit high-fat, high-sugar foods
- Reduce your salt intake
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