Liver Function:
The liver carries out numerous tasks that are vital to long life and excellent health. Among its most important jobs are:
- Producing important substances. Bile is continuously produced by your liver. This particular chemical aids in the body’s conversion of fats into energy. The digestive process requires bile. Albumin is also produced by your liver. This blood protein aids in the movement of fatty acids, medications, and hormones throughout your body. Also, the majority of the compounds that aid in blood clotting after injury are produced by your liver.
- Processing bilirubin. Bile contains a substance called bilirubin, which your body uses to help eliminate. The disintegration of your red blood cells is the cause of this. Jaundice can be caused by the body having too much bilirubin. This is an eye and skin yellowing.
- Removing waste products. Your liver helps transform and eliminate potentially toxic substances from your body, such as alcohol and medications.
- Controlling immune responses. Your liver contains specialized cells that are able to locate and eliminate pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and other harmful organisms.
- Maintaining glucose. The liver aids in the body’s ability to keep blood sugar levels in check. When needed, your liver provides your blood with glucose. When there is an excess of glucose in your blood, it also eliminates it.
Liver Health:
There are numerous actions you can take to maintain healthy liver function and lower your chance of developing liver disease:
- Maintain current vaccination records.
- Wash your hands frequently, particularly before eating, after using the restroom, and after handling pets.
- Reduce the amount of toxins you are exposed to, such as chemicals, cleaning supplies, and tobacco products.
- Steer clear of high or low cholesterol.
- If you have diabetes, maintain normal blood sugar levels.
- Avoid sharing toothbrushes, razors, needles, or other personal goods.
- Refrain from using tobacco products or smoking.
- Keep a healthy weight and consume a nutritious, well-balanced diet.
- Restrict your alcohol intake.
- Use caution when taking medication. It is important to discuss all of your medications, including over-the-counter items like pain relievers, with your healthcare provider.
- Reduce your chance of getting hepatitis or other health issues by practicing safe sex.
Liver Diseases:
Your liver can become diseased and stop working properly due to a variety of health issues. Liver disease is commonly characterized by various symptoms, such as jaundice, liver enlargement, and liver failure.
The types of liver disease include:
- Alcoholic Liver Disease. Alcohol misuse leads to alcoholic liver disease. The majority of Americans who consume alcohol do not go on to develop liver disease. Nonetheless, individuals who persist in consuming alcohol in excess may endanger their liver.
- Cholestasis. This is the result of restricted or obstructed bile flow from your liver. Certain medications, hereditary factors, or even pregnancy can result in cholestasis. It may also result from a blockage in the digestive tract brought on by a tumor or a gallstone lodged there.
- Cirrhosis. Your liver is hardening as a result of scar tissue. Cirrhosis is frequently caused by viruses such as hepatitis and heavy alcohol consumption. The illness can also be brought on by immune system issues, diabetes, and genetic disorders.
- Hepatitis. This is the term used to describe any liver-related inflammation. Numerous varieties exist. Hepatitis can also be brought on by drugs, alcohol abuse, or exposure to toxins. Liver cancer, liver failure, and other potentially fatal diseases can result from hepatitis.
- Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. When the liver has fat deposits, this occurs. The deposits obstruct your liver’s normal function and the elimination of toxins from your body.
Diagnosis:
The liver’s level of function can be assessed by a variety of tests. After evaluating your symptoms, your doctor will decide on the best course of action. Your physician might ask for:
- Liver function tests
- A liver scan
- A liver biopsy
- A CT scan
- An ultrasound
- An MRI scan
Treatment:
Treatment may be an option, depending on the severity of the liver disease. Depending on the exact ailment, there are a variety of treatments available, such as medication prescribed, diet restrictions, or surgery. It might be necessary to get a liver transplant if the damage to the liver is irreversible.