Liver disorders can be caused by a variety of things, from viral infections to unhealthy lifestyles. Impaired liver function can have an impact on the disruption of the function of other organs. Early detection and appropriate treatment need to be done to prevent the risk of serious complications.
The liver (liver) is the largest organ in a human. This organ is located on the upper right side of the abdomen and is protected by the ribs and diaphragm. The function of the liver is very important for the body, namely neutralizing toxins, producing protein, and helping the blood clotting process.
In addition, the liver also acts as an organ that produces bile for the digestive process.
Symptoms of Liver Disorders
Most liver disorders do not cause symptoms at an early stage. Symptoms usually appear only when the liver disorder has entered an advanced stage or even when the liver is badly damaged.
There are several symptoms that can arise due to liver problems, including:
- Yellow skin and eyes
- Skin feels itchy and bruises easily
- Get tired
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
- Swollen and painful stomach
- Dizziness and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen feet and ankles
Tell your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they don't go away for days. If neglected, liver disorders can get worse and treatment becomes even more difficult.
Common Causes and Risk Factors for Liver Disorders
Liver disorders can be caused by several factors, namely:
- Hepatitis viral infections, such as hepatitis A, B, and C viruses
- Genetic disorders
- Cancer
- The accumulation of fat or fatty liver
- Immune system disorders
Liver disorders can also be triggered by diseases, the environment, and unhealthy lifestyles. The following are some things that can increase a person's risk of developing liver problems:
- Alternately using the syringe for drugs
- Having unprotected sex or changing partners frequently
- Using a non-sterile piercing needle or tattoo needle
- Make direct contact with the blood or body fluids of people with hepatitis
- Taking drugs to excess
- Having a habit of drinking alcoholic beverages
- Taking supplements or herbal medicines, such as gotu kola and kenikir leaves, in high doses
- Being obese
- Have type 2 diabetes
Types of Liver Disorders
Various conditions and diseases can cause impaired liver function. The types of liver disorders include:
1. Jaundice
In Indonesia, yellow skin and eyes are known as jaundice. In fact, this condition is actually a symptom of a liver disorder.
This disease is caused by levels of bilirubin (bile pigment) in the bloodstream that exceed normal limits. Bilirubin levels become high due to cell abnormalities or inflammation of the liver.
2. Cholestasis
Cholestasis occurs when the flow of bile from the liver is reduced or blocked. Bile is produced by the liver to aid in the digestive process. This obstructed flow of bile can lead to a buildup of bilirubin and lead to jaundice.
3. Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a chronic form of scarring or scarring in the liver. This condition can cause liver damage that is difficult to treat and lead to liver failure. Drinking alcohol and viral hepatitis infection are the most common causes of cirrhosis
4. Hepatitis A
This disease is caused by the Hepatitis A virus which can cause inflammation of the liver. The mode of transmission is through feces, water and food contaminated with the virus. Physical contact with sufferers through sex can also increase the risk of contracting hepatitis A.
5. Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease caused by the hepatitis B virus and can be transmitted through blood, body fluids, or open wounds.
Pregnant women who suffer from hepatitis B can also pass it to the fetus in the womb. Liver infected with hepatitis B virus will experience injury, liver failure, and even cancer if not treated as soon as possible.
6. Hepatitis C
This type of hepatitis is caused by the hepatitis C virus which can cause the liver to become inflamed. Chronic hepatitis C can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer.
7. Fatty liver
As the name implies, the characteristics of this disease are characterized by too much fat stored in the liver. As a result, the liver becomes inflamed which can develop into permanent scarring.
In chronic conditions, the liver is at risk of developing cirrhosis and leading to liver failure. Fatty liver can be triggered by consumption of alcoholic beverages ( alcoholic fatty liver ) or other causes ( non-alcoholic fatty liver disease / NAFLD), such as diabetes and obesity.
8. Liver cancer
Liver cancer occurs when liver cells mutate so that they grow uncontrollably. In some cases, chronic infection due to hepatitis B and C viruses can cause liver cancer.
Apart from some of the causes mentioned above, liver disorders can also be caused by bacterial infections, toxins or poisons, and genetic disorders.
Treatment of Liver Disorders
Treatment of liver disorders depends on the type of disease. Some liver disorders can be overcome by making lifestyle changes, such as quitting alcoholic drinks, losing weight, and adopting clean and healthy habits.
Consumption of antiviral drugs is necessary if liver disorders are caused by viral infections. However, if you have cirrhosis, the damaged liver cannot be healed. Treatment efforts can still be done by monitoring the course of the disease and reducing the risk of complications.
Treatment for people with chronic liver failure is done by surgery to save the part of the liver that is still functioning. If these efforts turn out to be impossible, a liver transplant will be needed to save the patient's life.
Liver disorders can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle. In addition, avoid direct contact with the blood or body fluids of people with hepatitis. Also make sure you and your family get hepatitis vaccination as an effective measure to prevent this disease.
If you experience signs and symptoms of liver problems, please consult a doctor immediately for a complete examination and further treatment.
Label : Health
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