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Chronic Liver Disease
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What is Chronic Liver Disease?
Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) is a condition in which the liver is damaged over a long period, usually months or years. The liver is one of the most important organs in the body. It helps process food, remove toxins, store energy, and fight infections. When it is injured repeatedly, the liver becomes weak and unable to work properly.
Chronic liver disease often develops silently, without early symptoms. But if left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems like cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer. That’s why understanding the causes, warning signs, and treatment is essential for staying healthy.
Common Causes of Chronic Liver Disease
Several factors can damage the liver over time. The most common causes include:
- Fatty Liver Disease (MASLD or NASH): Fat accumulation in liver cells due to obesity, unhealthy eating habits, and lack of exercise.
- Viral Hepatitis (Hepatitis B and C): These infections cause inflammation and damage to the liver if not treated early.
- Alcohol Abuse: Drinking large amounts of alcohol for years can destroy liver cells and lead to cirrhosis.
- Autoimmune Liver Diseases: The body’s immune system attacks liver cells, causing inflammation and scarring.
- Genetic Disorders: Conditions like Wilson’s disease or hemochromatosis affect how the liver stores minerals like copper and iron.
Drug-induced Liver Injury: Certain medications or toxins can harm the liver if taken incorrectly or for too long.
Symptoms of Chronic Liver Disease
In the beginning, chronic liver disease may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, you may experience:
- Fatigue or feeling constantly tired
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Swelling in the legs or abdomen (due to fluid buildup)
- Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Confusion or memory problems (in advanced stages, known as hepatic encephalopathy)
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a liver specialist immediately. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and improve the chances of recovery.
How is Chronic Liver Disease Diagnosed?
Doctors use a combination of tests to diagnose chronic liver disease and determine how severe it is:
- Blood Tests: These check liver enzymes and functions.
- Ultrasound or FibroScan: Non-invasive imaging to look for liver fat, scarring, and stiffness.
- CT Scan or MRI: For detailed imaging in complicated cases.
- Liver Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the liver to study the extent of damage.
Dr. Tushar Madhav Madke, a Consultant in the Transplant Hepatology Department at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, is highly experienced in diagnosing and managing liver diseases using the latest techniques and tests.
Treatment Options for Chronic Liver Disease
While chronic liver disease cannot always be cured, proper management can slow its progression, reduce complications, and improve quality of life. Treatment depends on the cause and stage of the disease.
1. Lifestyle Changes
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein
- Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid alcohol completely
- Manage diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol levels
- Quit smoking and avoid unnecessary medications
2. Medical Treatment
Depending on the condition, your doctor may prescribe medicines to:
- Control inflammation
- Treat infections like hepatitis
- Manage symptoms like pain and fluid buildup
- Protect liver cells from further damage
3. Advanced Therapies
In severe cases, specialized care may be required:
- Endoscopic Procedures: To treat bleeding from veins in the stomach or esophagus
- Intensive Liver Care: For liver failure or acute complications
- Liver Transplant: For end-stage liver disease where other treatments are no longer effective
Dr. Madke has extensive experience in advanced liver care and transplant hepatology. He has been actively involved in managing critical liver conditions and helping patients recover with personalized care.
Living with Chronic Liver Disease
A chronic liver condition may sound frightening, but with the right care, many people lead healthy and fulfilling lives. Regular follow-ups, adherence to treatment, and early intervention can prevent complications and improve liver function.
Dr. Tushar Madke also works closely with awareness programs like METTA Dāna Foundation, educating doctors and patients about conditions like MASLD, which is becoming increasingly common in India. His goal is to help people understand liver health and take proactive steps before the disease worsens.
Why Choose Ruby Hall Clinic for Liver Care?
At Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, patients with liver disease receive world-class care supported by advanced technology, a team of expert doctors, and a compassionate approach. Under the guidance of Dr. Tushar Madke, patients benefit from:
- Comprehensive liver disease management
- Diagnostic procedures like ultrasound, CT scan, and liver biopsy
- Endoscopic and transplant-related care
- Personalized treatment plans focusing on lifestyle, medications, and advanced therapies
- Access to national and international liver health programs
Protect Your Liver, Protect Your Life
Chronic liver disease may not show symptoms early, but timely diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference. If you are at risk or showing signs of liver damage, consult Dr. Tushar Madke at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune today. Together, you can take steps toward better liver health and a healthier future.
📞 Book your appointment now and start your journey to liver wellness.