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Healthy Liver and its diseases
Located in
the upper right side of the abdomen, the liver is the largest internal
organ,
Common Liver Diseases Although the liver is one of the few organs that can regenerate itself, there are several diseases that can inhibit the liver's functionality. Hepatitis B How can I become infected? Hepatitis B is caused by DNA virus that is only transmittable through the exchange of bodily fluids. The virus is generally spread through sexual contact, sharing contaminated needles, blood transfusions, and from mother to child. What are the symptoms? Although most people will not show any symptoms, some symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice, fatigue, vomiting, and appetite loss. Blood tests are commonly used to detect Hepatitis B. The virus can cause eventual cirrhosis of the liver and increase the likelihood of developing liver cancer How can I treat Hepatitis B? There exists vaccinations to Hepatitis B, but once infected, several treatment options exist. Acute Hepatitis B does not usually require treatment and will disappear on its own. Common treatment options for chronic Hepatitis B include interferon, entecavir, and telbivudine. Hepatitis C How can I become infected? Hepatitis C is transmitted through blood exchanges, usually by sharing contaminated needles or blood. What are the symptoms? Although most people will not show any symptoms, some symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice, fatigue, vomiting, and appetite loss. Blood tests are commonly used to detect Hepatitis C. The virus can cause eventual cirrhosis of the liver and increase the likelihood of developing liver cancer. How can I treat Hepatitis C? There are several different genotypes for the virus, and knowing the genotype has a large impact on treatment options, as genotype 1 of the virus is highly resistant to interferon, the general treatment option. For those who cannot or do not wish to undergo interferon treatment, herbal supplements are the main alternative Cirrhosis How can I develop liver Cirrhosis? Cirrhosis of the liver causes liver tissue to become replaced by fibrous scar tissue, causing loss of liver functionality. The main causes for liver cirrhosis are alcohol consumption and hepatitis. What are the symptoms? Symptoms for cirrhosis include jaundice, enlarged liver, fatigue, weight loss, and physical deformity such as changes in nail color and changes in hand functionality and appearance. The detection of liver cirrhosis is done through a liver biopsy. How can I treat liver Cirrhosis? Liver Cirrhosis generally cannot be reversed, however further damage can be prevented by treating the underlying causes, such as avoiding alcohol consumption and interferon treatment. If damage becomes severe, the only option is liver transplantation. How to keep your liver healthy Avoid Alcohol - Alcohol is a primary cause for liver cirrhosis and should be consumed sparingly. When liver complications arise, alcohol should be avoided entirely. Avoid Smoking and Drugs - Because the liver is a primary source of drug metabolism, drug use can cause direct adverse effects to the liver in addition to overworking the liver. Exercise daily - Keeping in shape can combat many side effects of liver disease and their treatments, as well as keep the liver running efficiently. Eat healthy - Fatty foods, in addition to diminishing overall health, can also lead to an inefficient and fatty liver. This site is for exchanging information only. No product is sold in this entire website. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. |
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about the size of a football, and essential for survival. As part of
the digestive system, the liver aids in digestion by directly metabolizing
certain compounds, and through the production of bile, a yellowish green
fluid that helps break down fats. The liver also detoxifies the body through
drug metabolism and plays a role in the immune system.