Reasons to consult
Abnormal liver enzymes, fatty liver on ultrasound, jaundice, itching, abdominal swelling or a known hepatitis history may prompt review.
What assessment can involve
The consultation may cover medicines, supplements, metabolic risk, alcohol exposure, infections and family history. Blood tests and imaging are selected according to the findings.
An individual plan
Management may focus on the cause, metabolic health, medicines, monitoring or referral for additional testing. Avoid unproven supplements that may harm the liver.
Urgent symptoms
Confusion, vomiting blood, black stools, severe weakness, rapidly increasing abdominal swelling or fever with jaundice require urgent care.
Questions patients often ask
Can liver disease exist without symptoms?+
Yes. Some conditions are first detected through blood tests or imaging.
Does an abnormal liver test confirm one disease?+
No. The pattern and degree of abnormality must be interpreted with history, examination and sometimes further tests.
Can supplements affect the liver?+
Yes. Herbal and dietary products can interact with medicines or cause injury. Tell your doctor everything you take.