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Question #12737
52 days ago
121

the liver doctor - #12737

Zoya

I am really worried about my health lately, and I think I might need to see the liver doctor. For the past few months, I’ve been feeling tired all the time, like no matter how much I sleep, I just can’t shake off this fatigue. My diet hasn’t changed much, but I noticed that I have this weird, dull pain in my upper right abdomen that seems to get worse after I eat. Oh, and my skin has started itching a lot, too, especially at night! I had some blood tests done, and my doc mentioned that my liver enzymes were a little elevated. He said he might refer me to the liver doctor, but I just wanted to see if anyone else has had similar symptoms, you know? Like, seriously, what does a liver doctor look for? I mean, what should I expect when I finally see the liver doctor? I’m kinda scared, honestly. Are tests going to be super invasive? I just want to know what’s going on because it’s all a bit too much at the moment. Any advice would really help, thanks.

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Doctors’ responses

From what you’re describing, it seems like your symptoms could indeed be linked to liver issues. The fatigue, abdominal pain, itching, and elevated liver enzymes are common signs that warrant further investigation into your liver health. When you see a liver specialist, they will likely start by taking a detailed medical history and conducting a thorough physical examination. They’ll ask about your diet, alcohol intake, medication use, and any potential exposure to hepatitis or other liver-affecting substances. The tests liver doctors, or hepatologists, typically order include imaging studies like an ultrasound or a CT scan to assess the liver’s structure and look for signs of common problems like liver inflammation or fat accumulation. They may also do more specialized blood tests to examine liver function, rule out viral hepatitis, or check for autoimmune diseases. In some cases, a liver biopsy might be recommended to clarify what’s going on at a cellular level. This sounds intimidating but often it’s done with a fine needle under local anesthesia and is relatively safe. The key here is to pin down the exact cause of your symptoms, as liver issues can be caused by a range of things from fatty liver disease, viral infections, to biliary obstructions. While waiting for your appointment, try to minimize alcohol intake and eat a nutritious diet with balanced proteins, carbs, and healthy fats. Avoid over-the-counter medications that could aggravate the liver without your doctor’s nod. If your symptoms like itching significantly worsen or you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately, as these could hint at more severe liver dysfunction needing prompt attention. Remember, early intervention can significantly help in managing liver conditions effectively.

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