What Is Liver Disease?
Your liver contributes towards digestion, storage of energy and elimination of toxins. It occurs when it is unable to execute these jobs properly; this is liver disease. It may be mild, even severe, life threatening. So the early care will save your liver and your health.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Hepatitis A, B, or C
- Alcohol overuse
- Liver fat (NAFLD or NASH)
- Obesity, diabetes type 2 or high cholesterol
- Prolonged intake of some drugs or toxins
- Liver problems in the family history
Signs and Symptoms
- Often none in early stages
- Feeling tired
- Belly pain/pressure in right upper part
- Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Itchy skin
- Puffy legs or belly
- Easy bruising or bleeding
How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Liver Disease?
Dr. Chadha uses a step-by-step approach:
Comprehensive Medical History & Physical Exam
He examines your health history, alcohol consumption, family history among other risk factors.
Blood Tests
Liver tests are measured using liver enzymes and bilirubin together with other indicators to determine liver functioning.
Imaging Studies
- Ultrasound in order to visualize liver size, shape and lesions (CT scan or MRI).
- Noninvasive measurement of the liver stiffness and scarring FibroScan- or elastography.
Liver Biopsy (If Needed)
A tissue sample is collected to either diagnose, assess inflammation or grade fibrosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease is the accumulation of additional fat in the liver that can result in swelling and destruction in the long-run.
Can liver disease be reversed?
Yes. During the initial stages, a combination of a healthier diet, physical activity, weight loss, and treatment of the underlying cause improves a number of types of liver disease.
What is the life expectancy with NASH?
When treated early and appropriately NASH gives most of the individuals a normal life. Uncontrolled NASH may develop into cirrhosis which has more severe risks.
How long can I live with fatty liver?
The outcome of life becomes different depending on your general health, adherence to treatments, and development of complications.
When is liver disease serious?
The dangerous symptoms of a serious illness are yellow skin color/eyes, fluid in the abdomen, easy bleeding or bruises and drowsiness.
Do I need a liver biopsy?
Not always. Such noninvasive tests as blood work, ultrasound, FibroScan-, or MRI elastography-work often provide sufficient information. A biopsy is remitted only in special cases.
What diet helps fatty liver?
The liver is healthy with a low sugar and unhealthy fat diet rich in fiber, whole grains, fruit, and vegetables, and lean proteins.
Is hepatitis C curable?
Yes. In 8-12 weeks, over 95% of hepatitis C patients respond to modern antiviral drugs, however, getting rid of the virus and preventing further liver damage.
What is end-stage liver disease?
End-stage (decompensated) liver disease refers to the inability of the liver to maintain its important functions-in most cases, with jaundice, ascites and bleeding.
How can I see Dr. Chadha?
To make the first appointment with Dr. Rishi Chadha, please call GastroDoxs in Houston (713) 554-4880 or check our site to organize your appointment.