Understanding Liver Diseases: A Silent Epidemic
During his interview, Dr. Girn addressed a wide range of liver-related topics—from common conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to more severe ailments such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
“Liver diseases often go unnoticed until they reach advanced stages,” Dr. Girn explained. “That’s why prevention, regular check-ups, and awareness are crucial.”
Q&A with Dr. Girn: Excerpts from the Interview
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver and can be caused by viruses—primarily Hepatitis A, B, and C.
Hepatitis A is typically spread through contaminated food or water, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
Hepatitis B is transmitted through sexual contact, blood transfusions, or sharing of contaminated needles.
Hepatitis C is often a chronic infection and is usually contracted through blood exposure.
“All forms of hepatitis can lead to chronic liver inflammation and, if untreated, progress to liver cirrhosis or cancer,”
Can Hepatitis affect all age groups?
Yes. Viral hepatitis can affect individuals of any age. While symptoms may not always be apparent early on, many patients report persistent fatigue.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) What is NAFLD?
NAFLD is a condition where fat accumulates in the liver in individuals who consume little or no alcohol.
“It’s a particularly dangerous condition because it often shows no symptoms until it has advanced to liver failure,
What are the main causes?
Key contributors include:
Obesity
Sedentary lifestyle
High intake of processed or fast foods
Diabetes (both Type 1 and Type 2)
Are both men and women at risk?
Absolutely. Both genders are susceptible, though women are often more sensitive to the damaging effects of alcohol on the liver.
“You don’t need to be an alcoholic to develop liver disease. Many social drinkers develop severe liver conditions,
Liver Transplantation and When is it necessary?
Liver transplantation becomes essential when the liver fails, often due to chronic conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, or liver cancer. In advanced stages, when other organs such as the kidneys or lungs are affected, transplantation may be the only lifesaving option.
Is it curable ?
Transplantation can offer a new lease on life. However, if the underlying cause of liver damage (e.g., hepatitis C) remains active and persistant the disease can recur in the new liver.
What about accessibility and cost?
Liver transplants are expensive worldwide. Unfortunately, the demand for donor organs far exceeds supply. In India, particularly in Bangalore, government schemes and charitable organizations are often involved in assisting patients financially.
Symptoms and diagnosis of non Alcholic Fatty Liver Disease
Are there early
symptoms?
Most patients with NAFLD are asymptomatic. In advanced cases, mild abdominal pain, fatigue, nausea, or vomiting may occur. Without intervention, it can lead to cirrhosis and eventually liver failure.
How is it diagnosed?
People with risk factors are encouraged to undergo:
Liver function tests every six months
Abdominal ultrasound
FibroScan (in some cases)
“Even young adults can have fatty liver. The best intervention is sustained weight loss and control of diabetes and cholesterol,
Cirrhosis is more than just alcohol
Is alcohol the only cause of cirrhosis?
No. While alcohol is a major factor, it accounts for only about 50% of all cirrhosis cases. The rest are due to:
Viral hepatitis
Genetic disorders
Autoimmune and metabolic diseases
Liver Cancer: A growing Concern
Liver cancer is often diagnosed late due to its asymptomatic nature. Almost all chronic liver diseases can evolve into cancer if left unmanaged.
What are the key barriers to prevention and early detection?
Lack of public awareness
Inaccessible routine screenings, especially in rural areas
Undiagnosed hepatitis B and C
Limited knowledge among healthcare workers
The liver has no pain receptors, which means most diseases progress silently. That’s why regular check-ups are essential for at-risk populations.
Preventive Measures
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants
Undergo regular liver screenings if at risk
Dr. H. R. S. Girn is a Senior Consultant and Head of Department at Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bangalore, specializing in adult and pediatric liver transplantation, pancreatic and biliary surgery, and multi-organ transplant procedures. He holds extensive international training and has successfully managed complex liver and cirrhotic cases over his career.
For more information about liver disease and treatment options at Aster Whitefield, visit their official website or contact the hospital’s liver care team.
from The Island https://ift.tt/GVYkQ2P
No comments:
Post a Comment