Overview
The liver processes food, medicines and toxins. Fatty liver, where fat builds up in the liver, is increasingly common with weight gain and diabetes. Hepatitis B and C, which are common in Pakistan, can also damage the liver over time and need proper testing and treatment.
Causes
- Fatty liver from extra weight and diabetes
- Hepatitis B and C infections
- Alcohol
- Some medicines and herbal products
Risk factors
- Obesity and diabetes
- Unsafe injections or blood transfusions (hepatitis)
- Sharing razors or needles
- Heavy alcohol use
Symptoms
- Often no symptoms early on
- Tiredness
- Discomfort in the upper right tummy
- Yellow eyes or skin (jaundice)
- Dark urine and pale stools
Diagnosis
Liver function blood tests, hepatitis B and C tests, and an ultrasound help diagnose liver problems.
Management
- Weight loss, a healthy diet and regular exercise for fatty liver
- Controlling blood sugar
- Avoiding alcohol
- Antiviral treatment for hepatitis, as prescribed by a specialist
- Supportive medicines such as silymarin if your doctor advises
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, swelling of the tummy or legs, or vomiting blood. Get tested for hepatitis B and C if you have risk factors.
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from your doctor. Prescription medicines are supplied only against a valid prescription. Questions? Ask our pharmacist on WhatsApp.