Liver Problems - Symptoms and Causes


Millions of people are diagnosed in the US with chronic liver disease. Know the signs.


While we might not think about the liver a lot, this organ has an important role to play in our health. The liver produces bile to aid in digestion, stores glycogen and helps with blood clotting, to name just a few functions. There are many disorders and diseases that can impact the health and function of the liver, however. When they happen, our Calabasas, CA, gastroenterologist Dr. Parviz Gholami can provide a swift diagnosis and custom treatment plan.


What are the signs and symptoms of liver disease?

Some of the symptoms associated with liver disease include,


  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Unexpected weight loss
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Swelling of the stomach
  • Loss of appetite
  • Leg and ankle swelling
  • Dark urine
  • Pale stool
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Easy bruising


Jaundice is one of the telltale signs of a liver problem. If you develop this symptom it’s important that you see our Calabasas, CA, gastroenterologist right away to determine whether you could have liver disease.


What causes liver disease?

There are many things that can cause liver disease to develop. Some of these causes include,


  • Hepatitis A, B and C
  • Autoimmune problems (e.g. autoimmune hepatitis)
  • Genetics/family history
  • Chronic alcohol misuse
  • Taking certain medications
  • Fat buildup in the liver (not alcohol-induced)


Some people may be more at risk for liver disease if they are,


  • Heavy alcohol users
  • Obese
  • Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes
  • Intravenous drug users
  • Practicing unprotected sex
  • Exposed to certain toxins or chemicals
  • Misuse or overuse of certain medications (e.g.
  • Family history of liver disease


How is liver disease treated?

Your treatment plan will be based on your diagnosis, so this will vary depending on the cause of your symptoms. Certain conditions can be treated or even reversed with simple lifestyle modifications such as abstaining from alcohol and getting Type 2 diabetes under control; however, other forms of liver disease may require medications, regular monitoring by our gastroenterology team to check liver function or even surgery. If liver disease progresses into liver failure, a liver transplant will be necessary.


If you are concerned about liver disease, turn to our Calabasas, CA, gastroenterology team here at Calabasas Advanced Gastroenterology for answers. Call us at (818) 696-8840 to schedule a consultation.

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