The scarring on the liver because of various types of liver problems which may or may not include alcohol abuse and hepatitis is known as Cirrhosis. Our liver is the second largest organ in the body and carries out the important function of cleaning and detoxifying our blood. The formation of this scar tissue blocks the blood flow which is necessary for the liver to function.
Due to this blockage, all the hormones, nutrients, and toxins are not filtered or detoxified as fast as they should. Slowly there is a build-up of toxins in the liver which leads to complications throughout the body. The main functions of the liver are as follows:
- Breaks down saturated fat and produces cholesterol.
- Converts glucose to glycogen which can be easily stored by the body.
- Produces bile which helps in the digestion of food.
- Helps in the formation of many blood proteins essential for clotting, immune system, and oxygen transport.
- Removes alcohol and drugs from the bloodstream.
- Stores the excess nutrients and returns a few of them into the blood.
Diagnosis
Finding the cause and the extent of the liver damage is important as it helps in deciding how to go about the treatment. The doctor may recommend the following tests to better understand the condition:
- Blood Tests: Liver function tests are carried out which are used to diagnose liver disease.
- Imaging Tests: Ultrasounds, MRI, and CT scans are also helpful tools that can help to show the extent of the liver damage.
- Tissue Samples: A biopsy is also a great way to know the lmstull condition of your liver and is usually done using a long needle that is inserted through the skin to extract a sample.
Preparing Yourself
If diagnosed positively, then you will be referred to a Hematologist, a doctor who specializes in liver care. It is necessary to take the below-mentioned steps from your end for a successful alcoholic liver disease treatment.
- Ask about any pre-appointment restriction – This can include but is not limited to not eating solid food the day before your appointment
- Be sure of your symptoms and have your reports with you
- Make a list of all the medication you are consuming – these can be vitamins and supplements
- Have your medical history ready
- Be upfront with the doctor about your alcohol consumption
- Ask a friend or a relative to accompany you
Questions one should Ask the Doctor
- What can cause this?
- Is the damage reversible?
- Do I need to stop the intake of alcohol?
- Will medication for my other health issues interfere with the treatment?
- Is this genetic? Are my children predisposed to the disease?
What one can Expect from a Doctor
In most cases, you will be asked several questions and you must answer them as truthfully as you can:
- When did the symptoms begin?
- Do you have any other medical conditions?
- Have you ever had a blood transfusion?
- Have you had any liver problems before?
- Has anyone else in your family suffered from liver problems?
We at Max Healthcare aim to provide the best alcoholic liver disease treatment. With our world-class infrastructure and highly skilled doctors, you will be cured in no time.
