Español
The liver is one of the most important organs in the human body, responsible for vital functions such as detoxifying the blood, producing bile and regulating numerous metabolic processes. Maintaining a healthy liver is crucial for overall well-being. However, various factors such as poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption, viral infections and chronic diseases can affect its function. Here’s how you can tell if your liver is in bad shape and what clinical tests are essential for evaluation. Signs and Symptoms of Liver Problems Liver problems can manifest themselves in a variety of ways. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes.
- Chronic Fatigue: Persistent sensation of tiredness without apparent cause.
- Abdominal Pain: Especially in the upper right part of the abdomen.
- Swelling: fluid retention in the abdomen (ascites) and legs.
- Nausea and vomiting: Frequent stomach upset.
- Dark Urine and Light Stools: Changes in the color of urine and stool.
- Itchy Skin: No visible rash.
These symptoms may be indicative of liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver and liver cancer. However, for an accurate diagnosis, specific clinical tests are essential. Clinical Tests to Evaluate Liver Health There are several clinical tests that help evaluate liver function and detect potential problems. Some of the most important are:
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs): These tests measure the levels of enzymes and proteins in the blood that indicate how well the liver is functioning. They include:
- Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): Enzyme that helps metabolize proteins. High levels may indicate liver damage.
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): Enzyme present in the liver and other organs. Elevated levels may be a sign of liver damage.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): Enzyme that may indicate biliary obstruction or liver disease.
- Bilirubin: A substance produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. High levels can cause jaundice.
- Albumin and Total Proteins: Indicators of the liver’s capacity to produce essential proteins.
- Imaging tests: They help visualize the liver and detect structural abnormalities.
- Hepatic Ultrasound: Non-invasive evaluation of the liver.
- Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): They offer detailed images to detect tumors and other abnormalities.
- Liver Biopsy: Invasive procedure in which a small sample of liver tissue is removed for analysis. It is useful for diagnosing the severity of liver disease.
- Serological Tests: Determine the presence of viruses that cause hepatitis (Hepatitis A, B, C).
Prevention and Liver Care In addition to clinical tests, it is important to adopt healthy habits to keep the liver in good condition:
- Balanced Diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains.
- Regular Exercise: Staying active helps reduce the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
- Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the main causes of liver damage.
- Vaccination: Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.
At CQS we are committed to your well-being and offer a wide range of clinical tests to evaluate the health of your liver. If you have any of the above symptoms or simply wish to have a preventive check-up, do not hesitate to contact us to schedule your tests. Conclusion Early detection of any liver problem is crucial to receive the appropriate treatment and avoid major complications. Clinical tests play a key role in evaluating liver health and provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health. Be aware of your body’s signals and consult a healthcare professional if you have questions or concerns. For more information about our services and how we can help you, visit our website or contact us directly – your health is our priority!