The liver is known to be a filtration system for the human body. There are several things that can cause issues with the liver. Depending on the cause of the liver disease, there are a variety of treatment options available. Dr. Anthony Ugheoke, a gastroenterologist with the Huntsville, AL Associates in Gastroenterology can help to provide you with some basic information.

Causes

The liver is the second largest organ of the body and is susceptible to influences from the inside and outside. The most common causes of liver disease include:

• Disease. Certain infections or viruses, such as Hepatitis, can target the liver and negatively impact how it functions. 
• Genetics. Just as many traits, someone’s liver’s health is subject to the liver health of the parental families.
• Toxins. Being a filtration system, everything that is consumed passes through the liver. Certain substances, such as alcohol, are toxic to the liver. Overconsumption of these toxins will lead to damage.

Signs

When the liver is failing, symptoms that may be noticed can include: Abdominal pain (in the area of the liver), changes in urine or stool color, and/or nausea. 

Treatments

This is where the cause of liver disease is so important. Without understanding the full cause, some treatments would be overkill or wouldn’t work at all. 

 There are medications that can be taken for infections, such as Hepatitis. Certain genetic issues may also have a medication to use to compensate for whatever shortcomings of the liver. 

Lifestyle changes can have a huge impact on the improvement of the health of the liver if it was an unhealthy life that began the liver disease. Diet and exercise are often enough to combat a fatty liver.

Liver transplants are also available if the damage is beyond natural repair, under the proper circumstances.

What To Do

If not feeling well, be sure to hydrate with fluids and water, and stay away from toxins. If issues persist, it may be time to speak with a doctor. If you are in the Huntsville, AL area, and need a gastroenterologist, Associates in Gastroenterology is here. Dr. Ugheoke and his team are here to answer any questions you may have and get you back on the path to wellness.