Liver disease

The liver is a vital organ located just beneath the rib cage on the right side of the abdomen. It can weigh up to 4 pounds (about 1.8 kilograms) and plays a central role in keeping the body healthy. Key functions of the liver Helps digest food by producing bile Filters toxins and waste products from the blood Produces clotting factors, which are essential for proper blood clotting Regulates metabolism, nutrients, and energy storage Causes of liver disease Liver disease can develop for many reasons: Inherited (genetic) conditions passed down through families Viral infections, such as hepatitis Excessive alcohol consumption Obesity and metabolic disorders, which can lead to fatty liver disease Long-term liver damage When the liver is repeatedly damaged, it may develop scarring, known as cirrhosis. Over time, cirrhosis can interfere with normal liver function and may progress to liver failure, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Importance of early treatment Early diagnosis and treatment of liver disease are crucial. When managed promptly, many liver conditions can be slowed, stabilized, or even partially reversed, giving the liver time to heal and preventing severe complications.