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Why liver gets enlarged in disease?
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Digestive Health
Question #12443
49 days ago
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Why liver gets enlarged in disease? - #12443

Advait

I am really worrying about something my doctor mentioned last week. After getting some blood tests done, they told me my liver is enlarged, and I guess I’m just trying to figure out why liver gets enlarged in disease. The thing is, I don't drink alcohol and I'm relatively healthy, or at least I thought I was! I mean, I do experience some fatigue and maybe a little yellowing of my skin which I thought was just from too much sun. Do you think my diet could play a role in why liver gets enlarged in disease? I’ve read a lot about fatty liver and how it can happen without alcohol use, but my doctor hasn't given me a lot of clear answers yet. I've had some family history of liver issues, which makes it even more concerning. I try to eat healthy, like a balanced diet and exercise but maybe I'm missing something. I just really want to understand better why liver gets enlarged in disease and if there are specific signs I should be looking out for, or things I can do to help? Someone mentioned that certain infections can cause this too, do you think that relates to why liver gets enlarged in disease? I'm just really confused and I could use some clarity on what's going on. Thanks for any insights!

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Doctors’ responses

Liver enlargement, or hepatomegaly, can indeed have several causes, even in people who believe they’re practicing healthy habits. While non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) might be a likely suspect given your description, there are a few other considerations. Fatty liver can occur from excess calorie intake, certain medications, or conditions like diabetes and obesity, even without consuming alcohol. It’s also important to check for metabolic conditions or underlying infections that might be contributing. Viral infections, like hepatitis, can also cause the liver to become inflamed and enlarge. You mentioned some symptoms like fatigue and yellowing of the skin, which shouldn’t be ignored, as jaundice can indicate liver dysfunction or bile duct obstruction. This may warrant further investigation with liver function tests or imaging to look for structural changes.

Considering your family history, there might be a genetic component that’s making your liver more susceptible to diseases. It’s vital to have regular follow-ups with your physician. Dietary changes can also make a significant difference—focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while avoiding processed foods high in sugars and fats. Staying active through regular exercise can improve liver health, too. It’s wise to manage any other health issues, like lipid disorders or diabetes, as these can exacerbate liver disease. Monitoring for other symptoms, like abdominal pain or swelling, should prompt immediate consultation.

If you’re on medications, review them with your doctor as some drugs have liver-related side effects. You can also speak with your healthcare provider about testing for infections and autoimmune disorders if they haven’t been ruled out yet. Given the range of potential causes, personalizing your approach with your doctor’s guidance will be crucial. In more urgent cases with significant symptoms or rapid changes, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial to prevent complications.

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