Liver Infection
What Is A Liver Infection?
The goal of this article is to answer the question what is a liver infection and
to provide basic and introductory information about liver infection symptoms, causes and treatment to the general
public. This article is not intended for medical professionals.
Your best source of information about a liver infection is always your doctor because a liver
infection can be a serious threat to liver health and should be treated by a medical professional.
What is a liver infection? A liver infection is a problem that causes liver inflammation which can seriously impair metabolic function by destroying liver tissue.
This tissue destruction can eventually lead to cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver.
Liver infection causes
There are approximately a dozen typical causes for a liver infection. The best known causes are
the various strains of hepatitis. Hepatitis is simply an inflammation of the liver. The word hepatitis, in fact,
comes from Greek and literally means liver inflammation. This inflammation can result from a viral infection, an
attack by parasites, a transfusion of impure blood, toxic chemicals that get into the system, or improper use of
medications, vitamins and supplements. A liver infection can also be caused by fungi, liver cysts or abscesses
and swelling near the liver. Bile duct blockages and gallstones can cause a liver infection too.
 Liver infection symptoms
Here are the major symptoms of a liver infection. These often occur in combinations.
Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes This condition is known as jaundice,
and it is one of the most prominent symptoms of a liver problem. Jaundice is caused by an oversupply of a pigment
called bilirubin in the blood.
Abdominal pain, soreness and swelling on the right side near the bottom of the rib cage
are also prominent symptoms of liver problems.
Changes in bowel habits Light colored or slate colored stools are often a sign of
liver trouble. But common complaints like frequent diarrhea or constipation might also be liver infection
symptoms.
Changes in urine color Darker or cloudy urine is another clue that a liver problem
may be developing.
Unexplained weight loss and changes in eating habits Individuals with a liver
infection typically have lower appetites than normal and often lack interest in eating. This may be caused
partially by nausea and vomiting, which are typical for someone with a liver infection. Occasional fevers are also
common.
Fatigue, weakness, depression and lack of sex drive These also could be signs that
something is wrong with your liver, especially if there are other liver infection symptoms present.
Liver infection treatment
Treatment of course depends on the cause, but there are some general options for treating liver
inflammation that apply to all types of liver infections.
Treatment isn't necessary for acute viral hepatitis because it will eventually resolve by
itself. Certain medications and antiviral agents can be useful for hepatitis B and C. Ribivirin is one of these.
Corticosteroids are usually prescribed for treating autoimmune hepatitis.
A healthy, low fat diet is also important. Eating a lot of rich fatty foods that are high in
cholesterol make it harder for your liver and gallbladder to function. Stick to the good stuff.
When you have a liver infection, it's especially important to refrain from drinking alcohol.
Alcohol is toxic to the liver, and even small amounts can greatly aggravate any liver problem you have. Also be
sure to talk to your doctor before taking any kinds of pain relief medications or drugs - this includes products
you get over-the-counter like Tylenol. Never take vitamins or supplements without getting an okay from your doctor
first. Certain vitamin and supplement combinations can be dangerous, even though these items are readily available
in pharmacies, supermarkets and health food stores without a prescription.
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