Liver diseases refer to health problems occurring in the liver, one of the largest organs in the body. The liver performs vital functions such as detoxifying toxins, producing proteins, secreting bile, and storing energy. Various liver diseases can develop due to an unhealthy lifestyle, alcohol consumption, viral infections, or genetic factors.
Liver diseases encompass a wide range of treatment approaches, from lifestyle changes to medication. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, and receiving hepatitis vaccines are effective methods to protect liver health. Early detection of diseases not only enhances the patient’s quality of life but also broadens treatment options. Therefore, regular health check-ups are crucial for preserving liver health.
The symptoms of liver-related health problems, which may vary depending on the type of disease, include:
- Abdominal Pain or Discomfort
- Yellowing of the Skin (Jaundice)
- Fatigue and Weakness, Loss of Appetite
- Nausea and Vomiting, Itching (Pruritus)
- Dark Urine, Light-Colored Stool
- Abdominal Swelling (Ascites)
- Swelling in the Legs and Feet (Edema)
- Easy Bruising or Bleeding
- Mental Confusion and Memory Issues (Hepatic Encephalopathy)
- Fever and Signs of Infection
- Spider Veins on the Skin (Spider Angiomas)
- Menstrual Irregularities in Women, Loss of Libido or Gynecomastia in Men
What Are Liver Diseases?
The liver, one of the body’s most important organs, plays critical roles in metabolism, detoxification, and protein production. However, liver diseases can emerge due to various reasons, leading to significant health issues.
Hepatitis is a disease characterized by inflammation of the liver, with types such as Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Viral infections are the most common causes of this disease. Particularly, Hepatitis B and C carry a risk of becoming chronic, potentially leading to cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Fatty liver disease (Steatosis) occurs due to fat accumulation in the liver and is categorized into alcohol-related and non-alcoholic types. Obesity, diabetes, and an unhealthy diet are the main causes of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Another common liver disease is cirrhosis, which transforms liver tissue into scar tissue, causing the organ to lose its functionality. Chronic alcohol consumption and viral hepatitis are common causes of cirrhosis.
Liver cancer is a type of cancer associated with chronic liver diseases. The most frequently observed type is Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). Early diagnosis is critical in the treatment of liver cancer.
Genetic diseases such as Wilson’s disease and hemochromatosis affect the liver by causing copper or iron accumulation in the body. Additionally, autoimmune diseases such as Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) can cause severe liver damage.
Acute and chronic liver failure refers to situations where the liver cannot perform its vital functions. In such cases, liver transplantation is often the only treatment option.
To protect liver health, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine health check-ups are crucial. If symptoms are noticed, a specialist should be consulted without delay.
Which Medical Department Handles Liver Diseases?
Liver diseases are serious health problems that require early diagnosis and treatment. It is a frequently asked question which department patients should visit when a liver-related issue is suspected. The diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases are carried out by the Gastroenterology and Hepatology departments.
Gastroenterology is a branch of medicine that studies diseases of the digestive system, including organs such as the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Gastroenterologists diagnose and create treatment plans by conducting tests that evaluate liver functions. This department should be consulted, particularly in cases of elevated liver enzymes, suspected hepatitis infections, or cirrhosis.
Hepatology is a specialized field focusing on the liver and is involved in the diagnosis and treatment of more complex liver diseases. Chronic liver diseases, liver cancer, or conditions requiring transplantation are primarily managed by hepatologists.
Tests used in the diagnosis of liver diseases are available in both public hospitals and private healthcare centers. Blood tests (AST, ALT, bilirubin levels), ultrasounds, MRIs, and biopsies are fundamental methods for diagnosing liver diseases. These tests can also be conducted in private laboratories. Especially in large cities, private laboratories provide patients with quick and comprehensive results, performing analyses such as hepatitis tests and liver function tests.
Liver disorders often manifest as pain or a sense of pressure in the upper right part of the abdomen. In some cases, the pain can extend to the back or the right shoulder. This is often due to inflammation of liver cells, blockage of the bile ducts, or liver enlargement. Additionally, inadequate elimination of toxins from the body can cause general fatigue and swelling.
The primary factors that strain the liver include alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet, excessive medication use, and viral infections. These conditions impair liver cells’ ability to function normally and can cause long-term damage leading to cirrhosis. Viral infections such as chronic hepatitis, in particular, lead to liver inflammation and toxin accumulation. To prevent liver strain, a balanced diet and avoiding alcohol consumption are essential.
Liver enlargement develops due to an underlying disease and can manifest with various symptoms. Common signs include a sense of fullness in the abdomen, pain in the upper right quadrant, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the skin. If the bile ducts are blocked, light-colored stools and dark-colored urine may be observed. Liver enlargement, if not managed early, can lead to more severe conditions such as liver failure or chronic hepatitis. Therefore, medical attention should be sought if symptoms appear.
