doctor of liver - #18873
I am kinda worried about my health lately and really need some advice from a doctor of liver. For the past few months, I’ve had this persistent pain right under my rib cage, it’s not super intense but it’s definitely noticeable. I thought it might just be because I’ve been stressed or maybe eating too much junk, you know? But then just last week I started noticing that my skin has this weird yellowish tint, and I’m freaking out a bit. I did some research and learned that it could be related to liver issues, which made me wanna find a good doctor of liver. I went to my regular doctor, and they just said it could be some digestive issue but I also got sent for blood tests. The results showed elevated liver enzymes, which made things even scarier. The nurse mentioned that I might want to consult a specialist, like a doctor of liver, but I really don’t know who to trust or if I should be worried about these symptoms. Is it common for things like yellowing skin and rib cage pain to be serious? What should I ask when I finally see a doctor of liver? Should I be cutting out alcohol or certain foods now or wait for an appointment? Just feeling overwhelmed and not sure what to do next.
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Doctors' responses
Given the symptoms you’re experiencing—persistent pain under your rib cage, a yellowish tint to your skin, and elevated liver enzymes—it’s very wise to pursue a consultation with a hepatologist, often referred to as a “doctor of liver.” Yellowing of the skin, known as jaundice, is commonly associated with liver issues, as it indicates elevated bilirubin in the blood. The pain you’re experiencing could be due to an inflamed or enlarged liver, but it’s important to not jump to conclusions without diagnostic workups. During your visit to a specialist, it’s critical to present a comprehensive picture of your symptoms, lifestyle, and any changes you’ve noticed, like dietary habits or alcohol consumption. Ask them directly what could be causing these symptoms and what diagnostic tests are needed. Typically, a liver ultrasound, more detailed blood tests, or even MRI could be used to determine the underlying causes. Yes, though it may sound intuitive, avoiding alcohol and any known hepatotoxic substances is a good step until you receive further guidance. As for your diet, it’s often advised to maintain a balanced diet, low in fats and processed foods, and high in natural nutrients, but your primary focus should be on getting a proper diagnosis first. Consider also mentioning any family history of liver diseases as this could indicate hereditary conditions. Your worries are completely valid, given the symptoms, and getting medical advice from a specialist will provide a clearer path forward. In the meantime, remember to monitor your symptoms. If you notice them worsening, or if you experience more severe ones such as confusion, severe abdominal pain, or persistent nausea and vomiting, you should seek immediate medical attention, as these could be signs of more critical liver issues.
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