CONDITIONS
Liver Disease
What is liver disease?
Liver disease encompasses a broad range of disorders that affect the health and function of the liver, a vital organ located in the upper right quadrant of the abdominal cavity. The liver is responsible for producing bile, synthesizing specific proteins for blood plasma, and regulating cholesterol levels.
Types of Liver Disease
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is defined as inflammation of the liver. Transmission can occur through close contact with an infected individual. Common symptoms include fatigue, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea.
Portal Hypertension
Portal hypertension is characterized by elevated blood pressure in the portal vein, which passes through the liver. Symptoms may not develop initially and often appear only after complications arise. Early signs are typically related to the formation of new, fragile veins, including:
- Traces of blood in the vomit or fecal matter
- Swollen stomach
- Swelling in the feet and legs
Fibrosis (Scarring of the liver)
A diagnosis of liver disease indicates significant compromise of liver function. Prolonged inflammation or disorders such as hepatitis trigger continuous cellular repair signals, resulting in persistent collagen deposition. Excess collagen accumulates around healthy tissue, and in the absence of regulatory signals to halt this process, further collagen is deposited, leading to increased tissue stiffening.
Cirrhosis (Severe scarring of the liver)
Cirrhosis develops when the liver sustains severe damage and scarring. Contributing factors include chronic alcohol consumption, fatty liver disease, liver infections, and obesity. Each attempt by the liver to repair itself results in additional scar tissue formation. As cirrhosis progresses, the accumulation of scar tissue further impairs liver function.
Liver Cancer
Liver cancer originates in the cells of the liver. In the early stages, symptoms are typically absent. When present, symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, decreased appetite, upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, abdominal swelling, jaundice, and pale stools.
When It Is Time to See the Doctor
Regular health monitoring and routine screenings are essential for individuals diagnosed with liver disease. The emergence of concerning symptoms or suspicion of liver disease should prompt a comprehensive medical evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
All disease
begins in the gut.
