Liver disease is an inherited illness. It causes damage to the organ that helps break down food. Several types of liver disease include bile duct cancer, which attacks the tubes that carry bile and help the body digest food. Most people over the age of 50 are at risk. Another type of liver disease is called liver cell adenoma, a benign tumour that can become cancer if not treated correctly. Women taking birth control pills for long periods are also more likely to develop this tumour, which can become cancer. There are also certain inherited disorders of the liver that only run in families.
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Symptoms
Liver failure is a severe condition and is often life-threatening. It can start suddenly or gradually and is accompanied by numerous symptoms. Some of the most common are fatigue, loss of appetite, and diarrhoea. In more severe cases, people can also experience bleeding, yellow skin discolouration, and swelling in their abdomen. If left untreated, liver failure may progress to coma and death.
Liver disease is usually diagnosed through a combination of a patient’s symptoms and a physical exam. The physician may also order liver function tests and a liver biopsy. Further tests may include ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The presence of ascites, or fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity, may also be a symptom of liver failure.
Liver failure can occur suddenly, affecting an otherwise healthy person. If it does occur, you should seek medical attention immediately. A free health newsletter can help you manage your liver disease.
Diagnosis
A physical exam and health history are essential in diagnosing liver disease. Blood and imaging tests are used to look for damage to the liver. Sometimes, a biopsy of the liver is done. This tissue is sent to a lab for analysis and testing. This test helps determine the severity of the disease.
Blood tests may reveal a range of symptoms, including an elevated or low serum albumin level. These blood tests can also help determine whether a patient suffers from an underlying infection or inflammation. The serum biochemistry profile can also help determine the cause of liver disease. This test measures several substances in the blood, including enzymes, lipids, fats, glucose, and metabolic waste products.
Liver disease can cause other symptoms, including fever, bruising, and yellowing of the skin. Sometimes, liver disease can result from overeating fat, drinking too much alcohol, or taking certain medications. Although the symptoms of liver disease are usually non-specific, they should prompt a physician’s visit. A physician can diagnose liver disease by assessing your history and physical examination.
Treatment
Treatment of liver disease is a complex process that involves identifying and correcting the underlying cause. It can help reduce the disease’s symptoms, restore function, or reverse the damage already done. It can include medication or non-medical measures. Ultimately, the goal is to stop the offending agent and restore liver function. Diet and exercise are also important in treating the disease.
Liver disease can be diagnosed with blood tests or imaging studies. In addition, certain medications, such as sleeping pills or antidepressants, can affect the liver and cause other symptoms. Liver tests can also help to diagnose genetic conditions. A liver biopsy is another option to determine if there is a problem with the liver. During this procedure, a long needle is inserted through the skin to remove a sample of liver tissue for laboratory testing.
Treatment of the liver disease may include medications, surgery, or natural remedies. In some cases, liver transplantation can save a patient’s life. Although invasive, liver transplantation is a last resort and can only be performed in severe cases.
Prevention
Primary prevention of liver disease is based on avoiding injury and avoiding certain behaviours that increase the risk of infection. This means abstinence from alcohol, safe sex, clean needles and hygienic living. It also includes avoiding blood transfusions. Some vaccines can protect people against hepatitis A and B. However, there are limited benefits associated with these treatments. Therefore, prevention is the best option.
Several factors can lead to liver disease, but two primary causes are obesity and diabetes. Other less common causes include autoimmune hepatitis, a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the liver and deteriorates organ function. Lastly, some inherited disorders can damage the liver and other organs. Therefore, getting regular medical checkups is essential so your doctor can accurately diagnose your condition.
In recent years, chronic liver disease and cirrhosis have increased. The rise in alcohol consumption is contributing to this trend, and it should be understood that the effects of alcohol on these organs are far-reaching.
