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Alcoholic Liver Cirrhosis – What Can I Expect? – Medical Answers
A healthy liver is crucial for the proper functioning of the human body. Liver cirrhosis, a severe condition, can be caused by various factors, including alcohol consumption. During cirrhosis, liver cells are damaged, and the organ’s functions gradually decline. The treatment and prognosis for the patient significantly depend on how many healthy liver cells remain and how committed the patient is to lifestyle changes. The connection between alcoholism and liver diseases is close, and in many cases, alcohol-induced liver damage is the most common cause of cirrhosis. Therefore, it is essential for patients to be aware of the risks and to take immediate steps to reduce alcohol consumption. Assessing Liver…
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Liver Biopsy – When is it recommended, and how is the examination performed?
The liver biopsy is a medical procedure used to obtain samples of liver tissue, and it is now considered a common routine intervention. During the procedure, a tissue cylinder is obtained from the liver tissue or from lesions observed in the liver, which is then sent for histological examination. The sampling is typically guided by imaging techniques such as ultrasound or CT, ensuring accurate localization. The purpose of the liver biopsy is to enable the diagnosis of liver diseases, especially when other tests do not provide clear answers regarding the causes of the disease. Through histological examination, the type and severity of the disease can be determined, which can assist…
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Liver Function – Which Laboratory Results Provide Information About Liver Condition?
The liver is one of the most important organs in the human body, performing numerous vital functions. Its role extends to detoxification, supporting metabolic processes, and storing vitamins and minerals. Laboratory tests provide a wealth of information about liver health, particularly the levels of enzymes measured in the blood and bilirubin. Many tend to believe that deviations in liver enzyme values are merely the result of alcohol consumption; however, numerous other factors can also influence these values. Liver diseases encompass a wide spectrum, and with the help of laboratory results, doctors can identify underlying issues. The importance of such tests cannot be overstated, as early detection can be crucial for…
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Hepatitis B
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a serious global health challenge that is spreading significantly worldwide. In some cases, the infected individual can overcome the virus with the help of their immune system; however, chronic infection can lead to serious complications such as liver failure and liver cancer. Hepatitis B primarily spreads through blood and sexual contact, but the infection can be prevented through vaccination. It is crucial for society to be aware of the risk factors and methods of prevention to prevent such diseases. Globally, approximately 300 million people are affected by the hepatitis B virus, and the number of infected individuals is increasing every year. According to WHO…
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The relationship between liver problems and contraceptive methods
The use of medications is often unavoidable, especially in cases of more serious health problems. When the effects of the medication take hold and the illness subsides, we often forget even the name of the drug. However, behind the functioning of medications, complex biochemical processes are at play, which most people are not aware of. The active ingredient of the medication is not always the molecule found in the tablet or capsule; the actual active substance often arises as a result of the drug’s breakdown. This is particularly true for hormonal contraceptives. The liver plays a prominent role in the breakdown of medications, as it is here that the chemical…
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Hepatitis: Triggers, Signs, and Therapeutic Options
The inflammation of the liver, also known as hepatitis, is a serious health problem that can arise from various causes. The disease may be due to viral infection, autoimmune reaction, alcohol consumption, drug toxicity, or exposure to environmental toxins. The most common form of hepatitis is viral hepatitis, which can have acute and chronic courses. Hepatitis not only affects the functioning of the liver but also the overall health of the body. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid more severe complications, such as liver cirrhosis or even liver cancer. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the causes, symptoms, and possible treatment options for the disease. The…
