Liver is an organ about the size of a football that sits under the rib cage on the right side of the abdomen. Liver is the body "detoxifer". The cells within the liver contain a number of powerful enzymes that break down toxins or chemicals that can be found in some of the things we eat.
The liver plays a critical role in metabolic processes such as digestion and absorption of nutrients, regulation of blood sugar levels and in getting rid of toxic substance from the body. It helps to control cholesterol production and excretion; it also fights infection in the body by removing bacteria from the blood stream.
ALCOHOLIC HEPATITIS
Liver problem are caused by viruses and chemicals such as alcohol that subsequently leads to serious complications and are sometimes inherited. Any person diagnose with liver disease is placed on special diet in other to protect and allow the liver to perform its function without over working it. The liver is where any medicine or supplements that we consume are further broken down. This liver condition includes hepatitis A, B, C, cirrhosis and abscesses.
The latest statistics from the American Live Foundation and the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) show that over 26,000 people in the US die every year from chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. Cirrhosis, a chronic liver disease is the seventh leading disease-related cause of death in the US and that 75-80% of cases of cirrhosis could be prevented by eliminating alcohol abuse. As of January 31, 2010, over 20,000 adults and children were waiting for liver transplant in the US.
Common liver disease symptoms
1, Jaundice - this is yellow discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes.
2, liver failure - is the deterioration of liver functions
3, liver encephalopathy - deterioration of brain functions
4, liver enlargement - increase in size of the liver
5, cholestasis - stopped bile flow
6, portal hypertension - high blood press in portal vein
7, ascites - accumulation of fluid in abdominal cavity
8, pain or discomfort - in upper right portion of the abdomen
9, unintentional weight loss
10, loss of appetite
Prevention of liver problems
It should be noted that some cases of liver diseases can be prevented while others like genetics and involuntary to certain chemicals cannot really be controlled.
The following are some major ways we can prevent liver problems:
1, Avoid excessive alcohol intake - Moderate consumption of alcoholic beverages is one of the leading ways of preventing liver condition.
2, Quit smoking - various studies have linked smoking to many diseases and liver condition is not an exception.
3, Get vaccinated - Ensure you are properly immunized against hepatitis B and if you are not sure, ask your physician about getting the vaccine. Vaccinate your children at early age against hepatitis B as this will reduce the chances of getting liver problem later in life.
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