How to detect liver health problems early

The liver, located in the upper right abdomen of our body, is an important substantial organ. It undertakes multiple functions such as metabolism, detoxification, energy storage and production of important proteins. However, due to many factors such as changes in modern lifestyles and environmental pollution, the incidence of liver diseases has increased year by year. Early detection of liver problems is crucial because many liver diseases have no obvious symptoms in the early stages. Once symptoms appear, the condition is often more serious. How can we detect possible liver problems early by observing some subtle changes in the body and taking scientific examination methods?

1. Look for clues from changes in your body

1. Skin color and jaundice: Liver disease may lead to abnormal bilirubin metabolism, causing yellowing of the skin and sclera, i.e. jaundice. Observe whether your or others' skin color is abnormally yellow, especially on the face, palms and soles of the feet, which may be an early sign of liver problems.

2. Fatigue and weakness: Liver disease can affect the body's energy metabolism, leading to long-term fatigue and weakness. If you continue to feel tired and it is difficult to relieve even after adequate rest, you should be alert to liver problems.

3. Appetite and digestion: Liver disease may cause symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. At the same time, abnormal liver function can also affect the digestive function of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to problems such as abdominal distension and diarrhea.

4. Emotion and sleep: Traditional Chinese medicine believes that "the liver governs the flow of emotions", and abnormal liver function may affect emotional stability and sleep quality. If you have problems such as irritability, anxiety, and insomnia, it may also be a manifestation of liver problems.

2. Using scientific inspection methods

1. Liver function test: by drawing venous blood, the relevant indicators of liver synthesis, metabolism, detoxification and other functions are tested, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TBIL), etc. These indicators can reflect the basic functional status of the liver.

2. Liver imaging examination: including B-ultrasound, CT, MRI and other examination methods, which can visually observe the shape, size, structure, etc. of the liver, and detect possible space-occupying lesions, fatty liver and other problems.

3. Liver biopsy: For patients suspected of liver disease, doctors may recommend a liver biopsy. This is a method of obtaining a small amount of liver tissue for pathological examination through a puncture needle, which can accurately diagnose the type and severity of liver disease.

3. Prevention and health care in daily life

1. Reasonable diet: Maintain a balanced diet, reduce the intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods, and increase the intake of vegetables, fruits and other foods rich in vitamins and fiber. At the same time, avoid excessive drinking to reduce the burden on the liver. 2. Moderate exercise: Regularly perform appropriate physical exercise.

Exercise, such as walking, jogging, swimming, etc., helps promote metabolism and blood circulation and protect liver health.

3. Avoid drug abuse: Many drugs can cause damage to the liver, especially antibiotics, antipyretic analgesics, etc. When using drugs, you should follow the doctor's advice and inform the doctor of your physical condition.

4. Regular physical examinations: These are essential for early detection and treatment of liver disease. It is recommended to have a comprehensive physical examination once a year, including liver function tests and liver imaging tests.

In short, paying attention to your body changes and having regular physical examinations are the key to early detection of liver problems. Through reasonable diet and lifestyle adjustments and timely medical intervention, we can effectively protect liver health and prevent the occurrence of related diseases.