Liver Diseases

Approximately 1 out of 10 people in the United States are impacted by some variation of liver disease. The liver is one of the most critical and hardest working components of the body. It is responsible for facilitating digestion, transforming for into energy, and removing harmful materials from your body so you can stay in good health.

In general, liver disease related to issues that lead to inflammation or damage of the liver. “Liver Disease” is an umbrella term that refers to the list of conditions that may interfere with liver health. These disease include:

• Jaundice – An excess of bilirubin in the liver causes the white areas of the eyes and the skin to take on a yellowish hue.

• Fatty Liver Disease – A condition where a buildup of fat accumulates within a patient’s liver. Fatty liver disease can result in liver cirrhosis.

• Cirrhosis – Healthy tissue within the liver is taken over by scar tissue, resulting in decreased liver function.

• Hepatitis – This is a condition that causes inflammation of the liver.

• Bile Duct Diseases – Such conditions cause blockage in the bile ducts and prevent the proper flow of bile. These diseases may involve:

• Cancer

• Birth defects (such as biliary atresia)

• Inflammation (which leads to scarring and can cause liver failure)

• Infections

• Gallstones

Even though varying liver conditions can have different causes, a number of liver disease signs and symptoms are commonly the same. It is vital to visit a gastroenterologist, so an accurate diagnosis and treatment approach can be identified. Signs of liver disease include:

• Exhaustion

• Dark urine

• Nausea

• Abdominal swelling and discomfort

• Decreased appetite

• Itchy skin (pruritus)

• Yellowish color to the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)

  
  

It is important to keep your liver healthy in order to decrease the risk of liver disease. Drinking adequate amounts of water and avoiding foods high in sugar, fat, and salt are great ways to take care of your liver. Limiting alcohol is another vital way to ensure liver health. While these are not all of the ways to prevent liver disease, these are great tips for keeping your liver healthy.

Elder Law of Omaha provides free 30 minute consultation to provide options for people in planning for their potential long-term care needs. If you, a loved one, or a client need help figuring out the available options, please call us today at 402-614-6400 to schedule your consultation or visit our website at www.ElderLawOmaha.com