In India, cirrhosis of the liver stands as a significant health concern. Liver disease-related deaths in the country have reached horrible levels, contributing mainly to the nation’s mortality rate. Surprisingly, India represents a substantial portion of global cirrhosis deaths, counting for one-fifth of the total. Despite these concerning trends, current myths girding liver conditions persist, frequently resulting in neglect and delayed medical intervention. Let’s join Dr. Bhushan Chittawadagi leading liver transplant specialists in Bangalore clearing out these misconceptions to cultivate a clearer appreciation of liver health and advocate for visionary healthcare practices.
Myth 1): Liver Disease Only Affects Heavy Drinkers
Fact: One of the most current myths is that only heavy drinkers get liver complaints. While inordinate alcohol consumption is a significant threat factor, liver complaints can affect anyone. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease( NAFLD), for illustration, is decreasingly common and is linked to obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Viruses, genetics, and autoimmune conditions can also begets liver complaints.
Myth 2): Cirrhosis is Caused Only by Heavy Drinking
Fact: Cirrhosis, a severe liver condition characterized by scarring of the liver tissue, is frequently associated with heavy alcohol use. still, cirrhosis can also result from habitual hepatitis B or C, NAFLD, and other conditions. It’s pivotal to understand that cirrhosis can have multiple causes and is not simply linked to alcohol consumption.
Myth 3): Liver Disease is Not Preventable
Fact: Many believe that liver complaints are unavoidable, but this is far from the truth. While some liver conditions are inheritable or due to procurators beyond our control, multiple are preventable through lifestyle changes. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating the right diet, exercising regularly, avoiding extreme alcohol, and getting vaccinated against hepatitis B are operative ways to secure your liver.
Myth 4): Liver Disease Only Affects Old People
Fact: Liver disease is not distinguished by age. It can affect anyone, from newborns to the elderly. Pediatric liver conditions, analogous to biliary atresia, can happen in children, while NAFLD is rising among children and teenagers due to increasing rates of fattiness. It’s essential to recognize that liver health is a concern for all age groups.
Myth 5): A Liver Cleanse is All I Need to Get My Liver Back in Shape
Fact: The idea of liver purifying or detoxing is popular, but it is not supported by scientific validation. The liver is a largely operative organ that constitutionally detoxifies the body. preferably by counting on cleanses, concentrating on long-term healthy ways like eating a nutritive diet, avoiding extreme alcohol, and exercising regularly to support liver health.
Myth 6): I Cannot Take Paracetamol Tablets if I Have a Liver Condition
Fact: While it’s true that high dosages of paracetamol( acetaminophen) can be dangerous to the liver, it can still be used safely in people with liver conditions when taken as directed. It’s essential to follow your healthcare’s guidance and avoid exceeding the recommended dosage. Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medicine if you have a liver condition.
Myth 7): Liver Conditions are Often Detected with a Regular Blood Test
Fact: Routine blood experiments may not constantly discover liver conditions, especially in the early stages. special tests, such as liver function tests, imaging studies, or liver vivisection, are constantly demanded to diagnose liver conditions directly. Regular check-ups and reporting any unusual symptoms to your doctor can help in early discovery.
Myth 8): Liver Problems Cause Yellow Skin and Pains
Fact: While jaundice( yellowing of the skin and eyes) and abdominal pain are symptoms of liver problems, they aren’t always present. multiple liver conditions are” silent” in the early stages, showing no egregious symptoms until significant damage has happened. This is why regular monitoring and proactive liver health management are pivotal.
By clearing out these current myths, we enhance awareness and encourage visionary measures to maintain liver well-being. It’s imperative to seek guidance from healthcare professionals like Dr. Bhushan Chittawadagi, a renowned gastroenterologist in Bangalore for precise information and personalized advice concerning liver health. Don’t hesitate to book an appointment with Dr. Bhushan to discuss your liver health concerns and receive expert guidance tailored to your needs.