The liver is a vital organ with essential functions in the body, such as filtering toxins from the blood, breaking down dead red blood cells, producing proteins, and storing glycogen as an energy source.
Like other organs, the liver can also be affected by diseases that impair its function. Several types of liver diseases exist, some of which can be treated with lifestyle changes, while others may require medical intervention or lifelong treatment.
The term “liver disease” is commonly used to describe chronic liver disorders.
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Types of Liver Disease
Here are some common types of liver diseases:
1. Hepatitis
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by viral infections (hepatitis A, B, and C), bacteria, parasites, medications, or excessive alcohol consumption. Autoimmune diseases can also cause hepatitis, known as autoimmune hepatitis.
2. Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease, or hepatic steatosis, is a condition where fat accumulates in the liver. In its early stages, fatty liver may not be harmful. However, if left untreated, it can lead to liver damage and progress to cirrhosis. People who are overweight or obese are at a higher risk of developing fatty liver disease.
3. Liver Cirrhosis
Liver cirrhosis is the third stage of liver disease progression. It occurs when repeated liver damage leads to excessive scarring (fibrosis), disrupting blood flow to the liver and impairing its function. Severe cirrhosis can result in liver failure.
4. Liver Cancer
Liver tumors are abnormal cell growths in liver tissue. These tumors can be benign or malignant. Malignant liver tumors are known as liver cancer. Uncontrolled cancer cell growth can damage healthy liver cells and impair liver function.
Symptoms of Liver Disease
Liver disease symptoms vary depending on the type and severity. However, some common symptoms include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Upper right abdominal pain
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine
- Pale-colored stool
- Swelling in the abdomen and legs
Liver Disease Treatment
Treatment for liver disease depends on its type and severity. Common treatment options include:
- Medications: Antiviral drugs for hepatitis B and C, cholesterol-lowering medications for fatty liver disease, and antibiotics for primary biliary cholangitis (bile duct inflammation).
- Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and illegal drugs.
- Medical procedures: Surgery to remove liver tumors, hepatectomy, liver cancer ablation, or liver transplantation for severe cirrhosis cases.
Preventing Liver Disease
Here are some steps to help prevent liver disease:
- Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B to prevent viral infections that cause liver damage.
- Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
- Take medications as prescribed and avoid drug abuse.
- Maintain a healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, and protein while avoiding high-fat and high-sugar foods.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Practice safe sex to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections that can affect the liver.
- Undergo regular health check-ups.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience symptoms of liver disease, it is crucial to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. Early detection and effective treatment can help prevent severe liver damage and improve recovery chances.
At Mandaya Hospital, our Digestive & Liver Clinic provides top-quality care for liver conditions. Supported by experienced specialists and advanced medical equipment, we offer treatment options ranging from medication to surgical procedures.
Book an appointment today via our Care Doctor app, available on Google Play and the App Store, or contact us directly via Whatsapp Chat. The app also allows you to monitor queue numbers and access other important health information.
