Gastroenterologists often intervene when a patient is suffering from an inflammation. This inflammation can affect the digestion or the liver. In the case of the liver, six different conditions can affect it, all of which are commonly known by the same name.
An Inflammatory Liver Condition
Hepatitis in Allentown, PA is normally termed as an inflammatory liver condition. It usually results from a viral infection, but other causes can lead to the disease as well. These causes may result from the use of alcohol or drugs or may be due to an autoimmune disorder.
Common Symptoms
According to the Centers for Disease Control or CDC, many people do not know that the symptoms they are experiencing are coming from hepatitis. Common symptoms associated with the disease include the following:
• Flu-like symptoms
• Pale stools or dark urine
• Abdominal discomfort and pain
• Loss of appetite or an unexplained loss of weight
• Yellow eyes or skin – related to jaundice
Making a Diagnosis
To diagnose the liver condition, a gastroenterologist typically takes a history of the patient first to determine what risk factors he or she may have for getting noninfectious or infectious hepatitis. He or she normally presses down on the abdominal area to check for tenderness or pain. The doctor may also check to see if the liver is enlarged. Any yellowing of the skin or eyes will be noted during the physical exam.
Ordering Blood Tests
Blood tests are also used to verify the liver condition. Tests are used to see how well the liver works. If the tests come back abnormal, they normally indicate the first signs of a problem. For example, if the enzyme levels are too high, it means the liver is not functioning as it should, or that it is damaged or stressed. An abdominal ultrasound can also be used to support and confirm that a patient has liver disease.
Where to Learn More about Liver Disease
You can learn more about the above diagnostic procedures by visiting website online. Do all you can to ensure your liver is functioning normally.
