The liver is an essential organ that has many functions. The liver serves as a filter for the body by removing toxins and impurities from the blood. The liver also performs metabolically by converting food to energy. The liver also stores the fat soluble vitamins D and E. When diseased or damaged, the ability to perform these functions can lead to serious problems.
Types of Liver Disease
There are more than 100 types of liver diseases. Some of the most common diseases include the following:
- Inflammation
- Fibrosis
- Cirrhosis
- Liver failure
These diseases often develop as a result of infection, poor blood supply, an obstruction in the bile flow or from metabolic liver disease.
Symptoms of Liver Disease
Liver disease, in its earliest stages, may have little or no symptoms and will often be diagnosed as the flu. As the disease develops typical symptoms develop. The symptoms of liver disease can vary, but most often include the following:
- Jaundice
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Bloated abdomen
- Brown urine
- Itching
- Fatigue
- Bloody vomit
- Black stools
A series of tests will be conducted, including biopsy, blood tests and a comprehensive metabolic panel in order to accurately diagnosis the liver condition.
Treatment of Liver Disease
Some liver diseases can be effectively treated with medication, and some serious cases may require surgery to fully treat the disease.
