Your liver functions as your body’s filtration system, removing harmful toxins and breaking down fats and proteins for digestion. However, your liver is vulnerable to several diseases and conditions that can then affect the rest of your body.

Three of the most common and damaging health conditions that can affect your liver include:.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a viral infection that attacks the liver. It can be caused by one of several different viruses known as the hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E viruses.

Hepatitis A and B vaccines exist to protect against infection, but there is no vaccine for hepatitis C. Hepatitis can also be transmitted through blood transfusions, sexual contact, or sharing needles.

Hepatitis C is particularly damaging to the liver because it can go unnoticed for years, slowly damaging liver tissue over time. It can lead to liver cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated for too long.

Hepatitis symptoms can include fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, and nausea. If you suspect you have hepatitis, seek medical attention immediately.

Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease is a condition where fat builds up in the liver, usually due to excessive alcohol consumption or obesity. This excess fat can cause inflammation and scarring that can progress to liver cirrhosis if left untreated.

Fatty liver disease is usually reversible if caught early and the underlying causes are addressed.

If left untreated, fatty liver disease can lead to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is a more severe form of fatty liver disease. NASH can cause liver inflammation and damage, leading to liver cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Symptoms of fatty liver disease can include fatigue, enlarged liver, and abdominal pain.

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a condition that refers to scarring of the liver tissue. It can be caused by several factors, including hepatitis, alcoholism, and fatty liver disease.

As scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue, the liver loses its ability to function properly and eventually may fail altogether.

Symptoms of cirrhosis can include fatigue, itchy skin, abdominal pain, and jaundice. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have cirrhosis, as the damage is irreversible but can be managed with treatment.

Conclusion

Your liver is a vital organ that is vulnerable to several diseases and conditions that can have significant effects throughout your body. Some of the most common liver conditions include hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis.

If you have any symptoms or concerns about your liver health, seek medical attention immediately to receive prompt treatment and maintain your overall health.