Liver Disease

The liver is a vital organ responsible for many functions including filtering toxins from the blood, producing bile to aid digestion, storing glycogen for energy, and metabolizing medications and other substances. Liver diseases are medical conditions that affect liver function and health.

If left untreated the condition can become life-threatening. Dr. Vijaykumar is an experienced gastroenterologist in Hyderabad who specializes in liver disease treatment. He offers advanced diagnostic testing, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing care to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Different Types of Liver Diseases

There are many types of liver disease, each with different causes, symptoms and treatments. Key types include:

• Viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D, E): infections that cause liver inflammation and can lead to serious damage if untreated.
• Alcoholic liver disease: caused by excessive alcohol intake (fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis).
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): fat accumulation in the liver often linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome.
• Cirrhosis: chronic scarring of the liver tissue resulting from long-term damage.
• Autoimmune liver diseases: immune system attacks the liver (e.g., autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis).
• Inherited liver diseases: genetic conditions such as hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
• Liver cancer: primary or secondary cancers affecting the liver.
• Drug-induced liver injury: damage caused by medications or supplements.
• Liver failure: severe loss of liver function — often gradual and sometimes without early symptoms.

Symptoms of Liver Disease

Symptoms vary by disease and severity. Early stages may be asymptomatic. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
• Dark urine and pale stools
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Itchy skin
• Spider-like blood vessels on the skin
• Mental confusion or forgetfulness

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a clinical assessment and may include several tests to determine the cause and extent of liver damage:

• Physical exam: check for jaundice, enlarged liver, ascites.
• Blood tests: liver enzymes, bilirubin, proteins and viral markers.
• Imaging: ultrasound, CT or MRI to view liver structure and lesions.
• Biopsy: microscopic examination of a liver tissue sample when needed.
• Endoscopy: to evaluate gastrointestinal complications such as varices.
• Genetic testing: for suspected inherited liver disorders.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the specific disease and severity. Options include:

• Medications: antivirals for hepatitis, immunosuppressants for autoimmune disease, diuretics for fluid control.
• Procedures & Surgery: tumor removal, liver transplant when indicated.
• Supportive care: nutritional support, symptom control and monitoring.
• Prevention & lifestyle: vaccination, avoiding alcohol, weight loss, exercise, and a healthy diet (important for NAFLD).

Why early diagnosis matters

Many liver diseases respond well when caught early. Untreated liver disease can progress to irreversible damage. If you notice concerning symptoms or have risk factors, seek medical evaluation promptly.