The liver is a very tolerant organ and there is little evidence to suggest that it has an ageing problem such that, without disease, it can function properly into old age. However because most liver disease does not show symptoms and, when it does, the symptoms are often vague, many people with varying degrees of liver damage remain unaware of their liver problems without discussing with liver specialist in amritsar.
What the liver does?
The liver is dark reddish-brown in colour and is divided into two main lobes. About 60% of the liver is made up of liver cells called hepatocytes which absorb nutrients and detoxify and remove harmful substances from the blood. The liver is a hard working organ and carries out 1000s of functions per day, including:
- Cleansing the blood
- Helping regulate blood sugar
- Metabolising fats
- Synthesizing Vitamin A
- Breaking down toxic substances.
- Storing iron for the body
The Liver and Alcohol
Most people think that alcohol is fairly harmless and something to be enjoyed. Other than a few ill effects the next day, and maybe putting on a bit of weight, alcohol may not seem to have any long lasting effects, but it can.
Types of Liver Disease
Drinking too much alcohol can lead to three types of liver conditions – fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Any, or all, of these conditions can occur at the same time in the same person.
A build-up of fat occurs within liver cells in most people who regularly drink heavily. In itself, fatty liver is not usually serious and does not cause symptoms. Fatty liver will usually reverse if you stop drinking heavily.
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. The inflammation can range from mild to severe.
Mild hepatitis may not cause any symptoms. The only indication of inflammation may be an abnormal level of liver enzymes in the blood which can be detected by a blood test with the help of liver doctor in amritsar
Liver Function Tests
A liver function test tests for damage to liver cells by testing for two enzymes, ALT and AST. Normally these enzymes are largely present inside liver cells.
A liver function test is also suitable for anyone that is concerned about their alcohol consumption, overweight, or on long term medication.
The test is an easy to use, finger prick blood test which is confidential too as it can be taken in the comfort of your home.
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