Your liver is one of the most important organs in your body. It helps digest food, stores energy, and removes harmful toxins. When your liver stops working properly, your health can decline quickly. In serious cases, liver failure can be life-threatening. That’s why knowing the signs, causes, and treatment options is crucial.
What Causes Liver Disease?
Liver disease can happen for many reasons. Some causes are infections, while others come from lifestyle or genetic issues. Common causes include:
- Viral infections, such as Hepatitis A, B, or C
- Genetic conditions passed down in families
- Autoimmune diseases, where the body attacks its own liver
- Alcohol and drug abuse, including some prescription medicines
- Toxic substances or certain herbal remedies that harm the liver
- Cancer, either starting in the liver or spreading from another organ
- Obesity, diabetes, and poor dietary habits
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can get liver disease, but certain people have a higher risk:
- People with a family history of liver problems
- Heavy or frequent drinkers of alcohol
- Those with obesity or diabetes
- People with multiple tattoos or body piercings
- Individuals who use injectable drugs
- Those who have unprotected sex
- People who are exposed to blood, chemicals, or body fluids
Stages of Liver Disease
Liver disease usually progresses in stages, though sometimes it can develop suddenly.
- Inflammation: The liver becomes swollen and tender. Some people feel discomfort, while others may have no symptoms at all.
- Fibrosis (Scarring): Continued damage causes scar tissue to form, which blocks blood flow and strains the liver.
- Cirrhosis: At this advanced stage, scarring is widespread and the liver can no longer function well.
- End-stage liver failure: The liver stops working or functions at a very low level. This is a serious, life-threatening condition.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Only a specialist can accurately diagnose liver disease. If you’re showing symptoms, or if tests indicate a liver problem, doctors may recommend:
- Blood tests to check liver function
- Ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans to view liver damage
- Liver biopsy, where a small sample is taken to examine the tissue
What Are the Treatment Options?
Treatment depends on the cause and stage of the disease:
- Medications: For conditions that are manageable, doctors may prescribe medicine to stop further damage or help the liver heal.
- Supportive care: If a virus like hepatitis is the cause, doctors may focus on controlling symptoms while the body fights off the infection.
- Liver transplant: In severe or irreversible cases, a liver transplant may be needed. This surgery involves replacing the damaged liver with a healthy one from a donor. Since the liver can regenerate, both the donor and patient can recover fully.
When to Seek Help
Liver disease should never be ignored. Early treatment can prevent serious complications. If you suspect liver issues or have symptoms like fatigue, yellowing of the skin, or abdominal pain, consult a specialist right away.
At Immanuel Healthcare Hospital, our liver care experts provide advanced diagnosis, medical support, and, when necessary, liver transplant services using the latest technology and expert surgical teams. Your liver health is in safe hands with us.
