What are the Treatment Options for Liver Disease?

Below your ribcage exists a vital organ that flushes and filters unnecessary toxins from your body. The liver serves the essential function of aiding digestion and filtration, which is crucial to preserve its health. Unfortunately, many Americans are affected by various forms of liver disease. The causes of liver disease can range from alcohol, obesity, genetics, or even some viruses.

If you suspect you may be at risk for liver disease, you must consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Liver disease can result in multiple health problems, and you deserve to receive proper treatment.

Liver Disease Symptoms

You may not necessarily show symptoms right away. This is why you should always consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. If you are showing symptoms of liver disease, they may include:

• Jaundice: a condition where the skin and eyes appear yellow
• Loss of appetite
• Itchy skin
• Abdominal swelling and pain
• Dark urine color
• Pale stool color
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Swelling in legs or ankles
• Bruises form easily

Because liver disease is so elusive, each case may vary. Some may experience all of these symptoms, while others may not. Seek medical attention immediately at the onset of symptoms. It may be time to talk to your doctor.

What is Chronic Liver Disease?

Chronic liver disease (CLD) occurs when liver deterioration progresses for more than six months. The liver stops functioning correctly, and without treatment, you’ll experience a loss in liver function completely. With CLD, the liver will undergo intense inflammation and destruction, leading to illnesses like cirrhosis or fibrosis.

Treatment plans may vary depending on the extent of damage to the liver. There are ways to manage and minimize symptoms through weight loss plans, medication, and treatment for alcohol dependency. In advanced cases of CLD, a liver transplant may be the only viable solution.

Treatment Options for Liver Disease

If you catch liver disease early, most people fully recover, and proper treatment is necessary to make a successful recovery. Liver disease is usually treated by a specialist known as a hepatologist, and treatment plans may vary depending on the stage of liver disease or diagnosis.

In the early stages of liver disease, treatment may look like this:

• Intravenous (IV) fluids to regulate blood pressure
• Monitoring of blood glucose levels. If blood sugar begins to drop, glucose is given to the patient
• Medication distribution like laxatives or enemas to flush toxins out of the body immediately
• In some cases, patients may need a breathing tube

A blood transfusion may be necessary for more advanced or worsening stages of liver disease. In both acute and chronic cases of liver disease, liver transplants are also an option. Your doctor will make the necessary call depending on the level of liver damage.

How to Prevent Liver Disease

If you are predisposed to liver disease or suspect you are at risk, there are preventive measures you can take. Liver disease is 100% preventable and should be avoided. Making the necessary lifestyle changes to decrease your chance of acute or chronic liver disease is possible. Avoid liver disease by:

• Getting vaccinated for hepatitis B
• Decreasing alcohol consumption
• Remaining active
• Preserving a healthy, well-rounded diet
• Getting an annual checkup to screen for any illnesses or imbalances

Visit the Team at BASS Medical

Here at BASS Medical, we know the risks associated with acute or chronic liver disease, and we’re here to help. Our team of dedicated doctors is here for you and your loved ones. Avoid unnecessary illness, prioritize your health, and schedule an appointment with us today.

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