Liver Disease

Any condition that affects the function or structure of your liver is a type of liver disease. At Advanced Gastroenterology & Liver Institute in Anaheim, Santa Ana, Fullerton, and Huntington Beach, California, Tahmina Haq, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating liver disease. Taking care of your liver may prevent further damage and liver failure. Call the nearest office today or schedule a liver disease consultation with the skilled gastroenterologists online. 

What is liver disease?

Liver disease is a general term for any condition that affects the structure or function of the liver. Your liver is a vital organ that separates nutrients and toxins from your blood, makes bile to help digest fats, and stores energy. 

Liver disease refers to conditions that damage the liver, affecting function. 

What are some causes of liver disease?

Many conditions may damage the liver, leading to liver disease. Common causes include:

Viral infections

Certain viruses attack the liver, causing inflammation (hepatitis) and damage to the tissue. Hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common viruses that cause liver disease. 

Autoimmune disorders

Some autoimmune disorders cause the immune system to mistakenly attack the liver, leading to inflammation.

Inherited diseases

Wilson’s disease and hemochromatosis are inherited conditions that affect the function of the liver. 

Overconsumption of toxins

Excessive intake of certain substances causes the liver to store too much fat — fatty liver disease. Alcohol is a common cause of a fatty liver. 

However, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a fatty liver not related to alcohol consumption. NAFLD is a common condition and occurs in people with obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol. 

What are the symptoms of liver disease?

Liver disease symptoms vary in type and severity depending on the underlying cause. It’s also possible to have liver disease without experiencing any symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of liver disease include:

• Abdominal pain
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Dark-colored urine
• Pale stool
• Fatigue
• Swelling in the abdomen, legs, or arms

NAFLD is a common cause of liver disease and occurs without symptoms. If you have concerns about liver disease or liver health, schedule a consultation at Advanced Gastroenterology & Liver Institute.

The gastroenterologist reviews your medical history and symptoms and performs various tests to diagnose liver disease.

What are the treatments for liver disease?

Treatments for liver disease depend on the cause. The gastroenterologist at Advanced Gastroenterology & Liver Institute spends time talking to you about your condition, how it affects your health, and what you can do to manage it.

Treatments for liver disease may include:

• Abstinence from alcohol
• Eating a balanced diet
• Antiviral medication
• Weight loss

If you’re suffering from liver failure, you need a liver transplant.

For expert liver disease care from a compassionate gastroenterologist, call Advanced Gastroenterology & Liver Institute or schedule an appointment online today.