If you think you have some common signs of liver disease in Katy, TX, contact Dr. Kevin Marks of Premier Gastroenterology. Diagnosis and treatment for disorders of the digestive system are provided at his office.
Liver disease has many causes. It can be caused by a virus, like hepatitis, it can be cancer, it can be the result of poison, drugs, or alcohol, causing cirrhosis, or it can be heredity. Among the many jobs that the lover performs, it removes toxins from the blood. If it is diseased and not performing well, your health will suffer.
A positive outcome can best be achieved with early treatment. Knowing what some of the common signs are will help you to get to your gastroenterologist as soon as you recognize the symptoms. In the United States, 4.5 million people suffer from liver disease.
Common Symptoms/Signs of Liver Disease
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Dark colored urine
- Swelling and pain in the abdomen
- Edema of the legs and ankles
- Chronic fatigue
- Nausea and loss of appetite
- Weight gain or loss
If you think you have signs of liver disease in Katy, TX, don't waste any time, call a gastroenterologist and make an appointment for an exam. The doctor will likely order some tests to be done, including liver function and imaging tests. Be aware, however, that not everyone who has liver disease has symptoms of the disease. Fatty liver disease, for instance, does not have symptoms but poses a serious threat to your health.
You need your liver to be healthy in order to perform its main functions of helping digest food and distributing nutrients. If you have serious liver disease, you may be a candidate for a liver transplant. This is a life-saving procedure and one that not everyone can get. The good news is, the liver can regenerate itself, so even if you need some or most of it removed (up to 90%), there is hope for recovery.
Preventing Liver Disease
Like most conditions, preventing it from happening in the first place is the best course of action. There are things that you can do to help your liver stay healthy. It is time to quit smoking. Maintain a healthy weight, and if you are overweight, lose weight slowly. Limit your fat intake and switch to healthy fats. Get your hepatitis B vaccine. Avoid eating large amounts of sugar, especially sugary drinks. Avoid alcohol. Changing your lifestyle can undo early damage.
If you suspect you are suffering from liver disease in Katy, TX, give Dr. Marks, a board-certified gastroenterologist of Premier Gastroenterology, a call at (281) 392-0425 to make an appointment.