Liver Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Prevention

 🌟 Introduction

The liver is one of the most important organs of the human body. It performs over 500 functions, including detoxification, metabolism, and digestion.
When the liver becomes damaged due to infection, alcohol, fat accumulation, or autoimmune conditions, it leads to liver disease.
Early detection is crucial because untreated liver disease can progress to liver failure.

🩸 What Is Liver Disease?

Liver disease occurs when healthy liver cells are damaged and cannot function properly.
It can be acute (sudden) or chronic (slow and progressive).

Common Types of Liver Disease:

• Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD & AFLD)

• Hepatitis (A, B, C, D, E)

• Cirrhosis

• Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma)

• Alcoholic Liver Disease

• Autoimmune Hepatitis

• Hemochromatosis / Wilson’s Disease (Genetic)

🧾 Causes of Liver Disease

1️⃣ Alcohol Consumption

Long-term heavy drinking damages liver cells and leads to alcoholic cirrhosis.

2️⃣ Obesity & Diabetes

Excess fat accumulates in the liver causing fatty liver disease—now the most common liver disorder globally.

3️⃣ Viral Infections

Hepatitis B and C are major causes of chronic liver disease.

4️⃣ Genetic Disorders

Like Wilson's disease (copper accumulation) and hemochromatosis (iron overload).

5️⃣ Toxins & Medications

Excess paracetamol, steroids, herbal supplements, and toxic chemicals can harm the liver.

6️⃣ Autoimmune Diseases

The body’s immune system attacks liver cells.

⚠️ Symptoms of Liver Disease

Early-stage liver disease may show no symptoms.
Advanced stages can show:

• Yellowing of eyes/skin (Jaundice)

• Abdominal swelling (Ascites)

• Loss of appetite

• Fatigue & weakness

• Nausea & vomiting

• Dark urine

• Pale stools

• Easy bruising/bleeding

• Leg swelling

• Confusion (Hepatic encephalopathy)

🔬 Diagnosis of Liver Disease

1️⃣ Blood Tests

• Liver Function Test (LFT)

• Bilirubin

• ALT, AST

• ALP, GGT

• Albumin, PT/INR

2️⃣ Imaging Tests

• Ultrasound

• FibroScan (to measure liver stiffness)

• CT Scan / MRI

3️⃣ Viral Marker Tests

• HBsAg

• Anti-HCV

• HAV & HEV IgM

4️⃣ Liver Biopsy

To confirm cirrhosis/fibrosis and identify cause.

🩹 Treatment of Liver Disease

⭐ Fatty Liver

• Weight loss

• Exercise

• Diabetes control

• Low-fat diet

⭐ Alcoholic Liver Disease

• Stop alcohol completely

• Nutritional support

⭐ Viral Hepatitis

• Antiviral medications for Hepatitis B & C

• Vaccination for Hepatitis A & B

⭐ Cirrhosis

• Diuretics for swelling

• Endoscopy for varices

• Low-salt diet

• Liver transplant in advanced cases

⭐ Genetic Disorders

• Chelation therapy (for copper/iron removal)

🛡️ How to Prevent Liver Disease

• Avoid alcohol or limit intake

• Maintain healthy weight

• Control diabetes & cholesterol

• Eat fresh, low-fat, balanced food

• Avoid unnecessary medicines

• Get vaccinated for Hepatitis A & B

• Do regular LFT tests if you have risk factors

• Avoid sharing needles/tattoos at unclean places

📌 Conclusion

Liver disease is preventable and treatable when diagnosed early.
A healthy lifestyle, regular screening, and awareness can significantly reduce the risk of liver-related complications. Protect your liver today for a healthier future.

..................................................End.................................................