Liver Diseases

1. Hepatitis (A, B, C, D, E)

nflammation of the liver, usually caused by a virus, but also by alcohol, drugs, or autoimmune disorders.

• Symptoms: Fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), abdominal pain, nausea
• Transmission: Contaminated food or water (Hep A, E), blood and body fluids (Hep B, C, D)
• Treatment: Antiviral medications, vaccines for prevention (Hep A & B), lifestyle changes

2. Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD & AFLD)

Excess fat build-up in the liver due to alcohol (Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) or metabolic factors (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease).

• Symptoms: Often silent; may include fatigue, discomfort in upper right abdomen
• Risk Factors: Obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, alcohol use
• Treatment: Weight loss, exercise, dietary changes, avoiding alcohol

3.Cirrhosis

Scarring (fibrosis) of the liver due to long-term damage, often from hepatitis or alcohol abuse.

• Symptoms: Swelling in legs/abdomen, jaundice, confusion, easy bruising
• Causes: Chronic hepatitis, alcoholism, fatty liver disease
• Treatment: Managing the underlying cause, medications, liver transplant in advanced cases

4. Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma)

A type of cancer that starts in the liver, often developing in those with cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis.

• Symptoms: Weight loss, loss of appetite, upper abdominal pain, jaundice
• Risk Factors: Hepatitis B/C, cirrhosis, heavy alcohol use, aflatoxin exposure
• Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, liver transplant

5. Hemochromatosis

A genetic condition causing excess iron to accumulate in the liver and other organs.

• Symptoms: Joint pain, fatigue, liver enlargement, skin discoloration
• Treatment: Regular blood removal (phlebotomy), low-iron diet

6. Wilson’s Disease

A rare genetic disorder causing copper buildup in the liver, brain, and other organs.

• Symptoms: Liver dysfunction, tremors, speech problems, personality changes
• Treatment: Medications to remove excess copper, liver transplant if needed

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
• Swelling in abdomen or legs
• Chronic fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Dark urine and pale stool
• Itchy skin
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating

• Viral infections (Hepatitis viruses)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity and metabolic syndrome
• Unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle
• Exposure to toxins or drugs
• Genetic disorders
• Autoimmune diseases

Liver disease is diagnosed through:

• Blood tests (Liver Function Tests - LFTs)
• Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI
• Fibroscan: To assess liver stiffness
• Liver biopsy: For confirmation in complex cases
• Viral markers: To detect hepatitis

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the liver disease:

• Lifestyle modifications: Healthy diet, exercise, avoid alcohol and toxins
• Medications: Antivirals, anti-inflammatory drugs, chelation therapy (for iron or copper overload)
• Surgical procedures: In some cancers or blockages
• Liver transplant: For end-stage liver disease or liver failure

• Get vaccinated for Hepatitis A & B
• Limit or avoid alcohol
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a balanced diet low in fat and sugar
• Avoid sharing needles or personal items
• Practice safe sex
• Use medications responsibly
• Get regular liver check-ups if at risk

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent fatigue
• Jaundice
• Swelling in the abdomen or legs
• Changes in urine or stool color
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
• Confusion or behavioral changes