Being the largest internal organ in the human body, the liver plays a significant role in maintaining overall health. From filtering the blood, breaking down harmful substances like alcohol and removing toxins from the body to producing bile and providing digestive aid, the liver has several functions.
We all know that alcohol is poison to this vital organ, that everytime the liver filters alcohol, some of the healthy liver cells die in the process. Even though the liver develops new cells, prolonged use can make the damage permanent. However, it is important to note that apart from alcohol, there are other things that can cause as much damage to the liver. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Pavan Hanchanale, Consultant Hepatologist and Liver Transplant Physician, Jupiter Hospital, Pune, shares these liver-damaging factors.
Also Read: Your Legs Can Signal A Fatty Liver Disease: Note THIS Warning Sign
Viral Hepatitis
“Infections like hepatitis B, hepatitis C can lead to liver inflammation and damage,” says Dr Hanchanale, adding, “If left untreated, chronic hepatitis infections can progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer.” According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 35.4 crore people live with hepatitis B or C worldwide, most of whom have limited access to testing and treatment.
Common symptoms include fever, malaise, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark-coloured urine and jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
According to Dr Hanchanale, NAFLD refers to the abnormal accumulation of fat in the liver, which is often associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome.
As per a study published in the Journal Clinical and Molecular Hepatology, NAFLD is a leading cause of liver disease worldwide, with an estimated global incidence of 47 cases per 1,000 population. The study highlights that the prevalence is even greater among males than females.
“If not addressed, NAFLD can advance to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis,” says Dr Hanchanale.
Autoimmune Liver Diseases
Autoimmune liver diseases, including autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis, occur when the immune system mistakenly targets and damages healthy liver cells. This can cause patients to end up with liver cirrhosis and liver failure needing liver transplant if not addressed.
Hereditary Liver Disorders
This is a disorder, wherein parents may pass on their gene changes to their children, which may in turn increase their risk of developing a liver disease. Some of the common genetic conditions like hemochromatosis (excessive iron buildup), Wilson's disease (copper buildup), and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can lead to liver damage over time.
Parasitic Infections
Parasitic infections are illnesses caused by organisms that live off of another living organism. According to Dr Hanchanale, certain parasitic infections, like schistosomiasis, can cause liver damage by infecting the liver and its blood vessels. As per the WHO, liver enlargement is common in advanced cases and is frequently associated with "an accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity and hypertension of the abdominal blood vessels."
Also Read: Itching Can Be A Sign Of Liver Disease: Here's Why It Occurs And What To Do
Obesity
Obesity is closely linked to NAFLD and can contribute to liver inflammation and scarring, says the doctor, adding, “Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a state of progressive liver damage that can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.
A 2016 study, published in the Journal Obesity Review, concluded that obese individuals have a 3.5-fold increased risk of developing NAFLD.
Poor Diet
Most importantly, poor diet and choice of food can be one of the primary causes of liver damage. A diet high in sugar, saturated fats, and processed foods can contribute to the development and progression of liver disease. Research even suggests high fructose intake can lead to fatty liver disease.
Lifestyle Changes To Make
Here are some ways to improve liver health:
- Eat a balanced diet
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Indulge in regular exercise
- Cut off alcohol consumption
- Quit smoking
- Get necessary vaccinations
Bottomline
Liver is an important organ in our body responsible for several bodily functions. However, it is prone to damage due to various factors, including lifestyle, underlying medical conditions, and more. Having said it, keeping a check on your liver health status is crucial. Visit a healthcare professional if you suspect any problem associated with the liver.