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Top Cirrhosis Doctor - Dr. Scott Liu
Cirrhosis affects the liver functioning as the normal liver tissues are replaced by scar tissue resulting to jaundice, fluid accumulation, bleeding and cognitive deficits. The board- certified specialist, Dr. Scott available in Houston, GastroDoxs, provides care characterized by the realization of lifestyle changes that are care embracing, that is, specifically- targeted pharmacotherapy, imaging, and diagnostics, and minimally procedure based interventions.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Chronic heavy alcohol use
Hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Genetic ailments (hemochromatosis, Wilson disease)
Autoimmune liver diseases
Extensive exposure to certain toxins or drugs.
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Fatigue or overall weakness.
Jaundice (yellowness on the skin and eyes)
Pitting of legs (edema) or stomach (ascites).
Easy bruising or bleeding
Itchy skin
Diffusion or lack of clarity of thought.
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He will investigate you with some detail on the onset of the pain, its site on the upper abdomen (epigastrium), its intensity, its relation to/before eating, and whether you have any other accompanying symptoms, such as nausea, bloating or heartburn. Physical examination will follow tenderness, size of organs and complications.
Blood Tests
Frequent lab would include complete blood count (CBC) to rule out anemia or infection, liver tests (AST, ALT), bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase to check liver function, and amylase and lipase to rule out pancreatitis.
Imaging Studies
Dilation of pancreatic ducts, gallstones or gallstones in the liver and gallbladder Abdominal ultrasound to examine the liver, gallbladder and pancreatic glands.
In other instances, CT scan or MRI of abdomen to further characterize lesions, inflammation or masses.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Taking into consideration the inconclusive nature of the initial tests, Dr. Scott has the option of administering an upper endoscopy (EGD) that will enable him to visually inspect the esophagus, stomach and duodenum to detect any ulcers, gastrointestinal fissures or reflux burns. He may also order an H. pylori breath or stool test, or a gastric emptying study in the event of the gastroparesis being suspected.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for cirrhosis of the liver.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Stop alcohol to avoid further destruction of liver.
Take low sodium diet to reduce the fluid build up.
Choose fruits, low fat proteins and high quantities of vegetables.
Engage in mild exercise recommended by a physician.
2. Medications
Diuretics to disembowel leg and belly swelling.
Beta-blockers to prevent the risk of variceal bleeding.
Antiviral therapy in case of hepatitis B or C.
The vitamins and supplements to assist in the general health of the liver.
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic variceal staining to minimize or prevent hemorrhage.
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) to be reduced.
safe abdominal fluid - paracentesis.
See a hepatology facility where hepatology testing is performed.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ICD-10 code of cirrhosis?
K74.60 that encompasses cirrhosis of the liver without ascites is the most popular code.
How long can a person with cirrhosis live?
The early diagnosis and proper treatment help the majority of the patients live longer years. The life expectancy will be pegged on the degree of disease, cause and compliance to your care plan.
Can cirrhosis be reversed?
A scar tissue once formed cannot be removed. Mild liver damage is treatable in a manner that rectification of its cause will be accomplished and additional scarring will be prevented.
What is the most appropriate diet to cirrhosis?
Reduced sodium balanced diet of lean protein, fresh fruits and vegetables are useful in accumulating fluids and liver diseases. Avoid alcohol and processed food.
Where is it necessary to refer to a liver specialist?
See a doctor to get an appointment in case you have abnormal liver test results, unexplainable fatigue, jaundice, or have swelling in your legs or stomach.
What are the symptoms of late cirrhosis?
Advanced symptoms include ascites (abdominal fluid), liver encephalopathy (confusion), and simple bruising or bleeding, and kidney dysfunction.
Houston has support groups?
Yes. The support and education groups of teen in the American liver foundation and other hospitals around the Houston area would offer the channel through which you can live and support your family.
