5 MAJOR CAUSES OF LIVER DISEASE

5 MAJOR CAUSES OF LIVER DISEASE

Over 2 million people die from liver disease yearly.

For a condition that is largely preventable, this number is alarming.

What everyday actions put your liver at risk?

How can you prevent liver disease?

What signs should you never ignore?

1. Chronic alcohol consumption 

Excessive alcohol intake is one of the most common causes of liver disease worldwide.

Excessive amounts of alcohol, overwhelms the liver’s ability to process it safely, leading to toxic byproducts.

This can lead to:

- Fatty liver disease 

- Alcoholic Hepatitis 

- Cirrhosis

3. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease 

NAFLD is an accumulation of excess fat in the liver, not related to alcohol consumption.

It is strongly associated with obesity, insulin resistance and metabolic function.

Effects of NAFLD on the liver:

- Simple fatty liver

- Inflammation of the liver cells

- Fibrosis and Cirrhosis if left untreated.

4. Autoimmune and genetic liver diseases

Some liver diseases occur due to autoimmune disorders or inherited genetic mutations.

These conditions can cause the immune system to mistakenly attack the liver or lead to metabolic imbalances that damage the liver.

Common autoimmune diseases include:

- Autoimmune hepatitis 

- Primary Biliary Cholangitis

- Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

- Hemochromatosis 

- Wilson’s disease

5. Drug induced liver injury and exposure to toxins

Some medications, herbal supplements and industrial chemicals can cause liver damage if taken in excess or over long periods.

Some of them include:

- Overuse of acetaminophen (paracetamol)

- Long term use of NSAIDs, antibiotics or antifungal drugs

- Herbal supplements and traditional medicines

- Exposure to pesticides, industrial solvents and contaminated food.

HOW DO YOU PREVENT LIVER DISEASE?

1. Reduce intake of alcohol or quit completely.

2. Exercise regularly. Exercise helps you maintain a healthy weight

3. Cut out junk food. Eat a healthy and balanced diet

4. Maintain a healthy weight

5. Maintain a healthy sexual life. Don’t have unprotected sex with strangers.

6. Get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B.

7. Don’t share needles or personal items

8. Cook your proteins well, Wash your veggies and fruits before eating, maintain personal hygiene.

9. Don’t abuse medications.

5 signs something is wrong with your liver;

- Feeling tired and weak all the time

- Yellowing of the skin

- Abdominal weight gain

- Dark urine

- Itching with no rash.

When you notice these changes, it’s time for a lifestyle overhaul.

You don’t need numerous detox teas, you only need to eat healthfully, exercise and practice safe sex.

Pharmacist Oluoma

2. Viral hepatitis infections

Hepatitis is simply inflammation of the liver, and viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D and E) is a major cause of liver disease.

Most especially, Hepatitis B and C are concerning as they can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and liver cancer.