Guwahati , July 7 : The liver is one of the most important organs in the human body. It performs several vital functions, including removing toxins from the body, helping in digestion, regulating energy metabolism, producing essential proteins, and strengthening the immune system. One of the liver’s most remarkable features is its ability to regenerate itself. However, this also means that liver disease often progresses silently for a long time, with many people becoming aware of it only after significant damage has already occurred.
In the early stages, the symptoms of liver disease are often mild and easy to ignore. These may include persistent fatigue, loss of appetite, indigestion, nausea, or mild swelling in the legs. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms such as jaundice like yellowing of the skin and eyes, abdominal swelling, confusion, vomiting blood, or passing black stools may develop. By this stage, the liver may already have suffered extensive damage.
Dr. Rajesh Dey, Director Liver Transplant and Biliary Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, said,
“Certain people are at a higher risk of developing liver disease. These include individuals who consume excessive alcohol regularly, people with obesity or diabetes, those suffering from fatty liver disease, patients infected with hepatitis B or hepatitis C, and individuals with a family history of liver disease or liver cancer. Such people should undergo regular health check-ups and liver screening.”
To detect liver disease at an early stage, doctors may recommend tests such as Liver Function Tests , platelet count, prothrombin time, liver ultrasound, and FibroScan, depending on the patient’s condition. These investigations help identify liver damage early, allowing timely treatment and reducing the risk of serious complications such as liver failure and liver cancer.
Dr. Dey further added,
“Protecting your liver starts with adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Limit or completely avoid alcohol, maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, keep diabetes and other metabolic conditions under control, get vaccinated against hepatitis B, and seek timely treatment if diagnosed with hepatitis C. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein in your diet while reducing fried, processed, and high-fat foods. Avoid taking medicines or herbal supplements without medical advice, as some may cause liver damage.”
Today, most liver diseases can be prevented or effectively managed if detected early. However, due to a lack of awareness and because the early symptoms are often ignored, many patients seek medical care only after the disease has reached an advanced stage. Regular health check-ups, awareness of risk factors, and timely consultation with a specialist are essential for maintaining good liver health.
By adopting a healthy lifestyle, undergoing regular screening, and seeking timely medical care, individuals can protect their liver, prevent serious complications, and enjoy better long-term health.