Risk factors of liver disease

Many a time liver disease due to various causes remain silent . Silent inflammation and slow scarring accumulate over years and ultimately surface as liver cirrhosis. In view of this silent slow progression without symptoms, It is worthwhile looking at the risk factors of liver disease.

Factors that may increase your risk of liver disease include:

• Heavy alcohol use
• Injecting drugs using shared needles
• Tattoos or body piercings
• Blood transfusion before 1990
• Exposure to other people’s blood and body fluids
• Unprotected sex
• Exposure to certain chemicals or toxins
• Diabetes
• Obesity

While some risk factors for liver disease, such as genetics, cannot be changed, adopting a healthy lifestyle, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, practicing safe sex, and getting vaccinated against hepatitis viruses can significantly reduce the risk of liver disease. Regular check-ups and screenings are also important for early detection and management.

Yes, hepatitis B and C viruses are common causes of chronic liver infections, which can eventually lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer if left untreated.

Obesity is a significant risk factor for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Excess fat in the body can accumulate in the liver, leading to inflammation and potential liver damage over time.

Yes, excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption can lead to various liver diseases, including fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis.