Liver disease: what should I do? Medical explanation and tips

The liver is the body's „chemical factory”, performing more than 500 vital functions: detoxifying, storing energy and producing essential proteins. Since the liver has no pain-sensing nerves, its diseases can remain hidden for a long time.

From Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre summary to help you recognise the warning signs and navigate modern diagnostic options.

The most common liver diseases

Contrary to popular belief, alcohol is not the only cause of liver damage.

Warning symptoms

As the early stage may be asymptomatic, watch out for the following general and specific signs:

General signs:

• Chronic fatigue and weakness.
• Dull pressure or discomfort under the right rib cage.
• Loss of appetite, bloating and nausea.

Specific (severe) signs:

• Jaundice (icterus): Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes.
• Dark urine and clear stools.
• Ascites (ascites): A sudden increase in abdominal volume due to fluid accumulation.
• Haemophilia: Frequent occurrence of bruising.

Modern diagnostics at Endomedix

If the laboratory test shows elevated liver enzymes (GOT, GPT, GGT), a specialist examination is necessary.

1. Abdominal ultrasound: A basic imaging test to check the structure of the liver.
2. FibroScan (Transient elastography): The most modern, painless technique that without liver biopsy, uses vibration waves to measure the exact extent of scarring and fatty deposits in the liver.
3. Laboratory panels: Screening for viral markers and autoantibodies to identify the exact cause.

What can you do for your liver health?

The liver has excellent regenerative capacity if we act in time.

• Alcohol-free: For any liver abnormalities, zero tolerance is the baseline.
• Mediterranean diet: A diet rich in vegetables, fish and olive oil, avoiding sugary drinks and refined carbohydrates.
• Weight control: Losing as little as 5-10% can dramatically improve the condition of fatty liver.
• Move: At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity sport (e.g. swimming, cycling) per week.
• Vaccination: Get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B!