Reversing Liver Damage: Understanding Myths vs. Facts

The liver is the largest internal organ and is responsible for many important functions like processing nutrients, filtering the blood, producing bile, regulating hormones, maintaining blood sugar levels, blood clotting and fighting infections. Hence, any injury to the liver, if it goes unchecked, can pose a threat to our lives.

Liver Diseases: Silent Killers

Liver diseases often go unnoticed because the liver can handle a lot of stress without showing symptoms. Over time, this stress can cause serious damage, eventually leading to liver cirrhosis, a condition where the liver's function is severely affected and hard to reverse.

In India, liver disease affects millions of patients every year and is the tenth most common cause of death, as per the World Health Organisation. In India, around 10 lakh patients with chronic liver disease are diagnosed every year. Liver cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Unfortunately, despite such grave significance, people are less sensitised about liver diseases and ways to prevent them.

Myths and Facts about Liver Damage

Many myths surround the liver and its diseases, which often result in delayed diagnoses and make it harder to treat once the condition becomes severe. Here’s a quick look at some of the myths and facts about liver damage:

Myth: All liver damage is permanent.

Fact: The liver has the ability to regenerate. Even if part of the liver is damaged or removed, it can grow back if the underlying causes of damage are addressed. Mild to moderate liver damage, especially in the early stages (like fatty liver disease or hepatitis), can be reversible with lifestyle changes, like improving diet, reducing alcohol consumption, and managing underlying conditions like diabetes. Cirrhosis is a long-term condition that usually can’t be reversed, especially when it’s in advanced stages. Acting early is essential for improving the chances of better results.

Myth: You can’t repair your liver if you drink alcohol.

Fact: While excessive drinking can lead to significant liver damage, stopping alcohol intake can allow the liver to heal to some extent. However, the degree of recovery varies by individual and depends on the extent of damage.

Myth: I don’t drink alcohol, and thus I can't have liver disease.

Fact: Too much alcohol is a common cause of liver disease, but other factors can also harm the liver. These include diabetes, being overweight, hepatitis B and C, certain drugs (including alternative medicines), and autoimmune liver diseases.

Myth: Herbal remedies can cure liver damage.

Fact: Although some herbal supplements might help support liver health, they cannot treat serious liver conditions. Always check with a doctor before trying any remedies.

Myth: Liver disease is always accompanied by symptoms.

Fact: Liver disease often has no clear signs or symptoms in its early stages, meaning it might go unnoticed until it becomes more serious. Quite often, the symptoms include weakness, bloating and bowel disturbances. Regular check-ups and screenings are important for finding and treating health issues early.

Myth: Being diagnosed with cirrhosis means you will need a liver transplant.

Fact: Even with cirrhosis, your liver can often continue to perform its normal functions for a long time. A liver with cirrhosis can improve to some extent if the underlying causes are addressed promptly. This may include stopping alcohol use, managing weight, and treating conditions like hepatitis B or C. If medications aren't helping control your symptoms or if you have early liver cancer that can't be surgically treated, you may need a liver transplant.

How to Maintain A Healthy Liver

Healthy lifestyle choices can greatly benefit your liver. Eating a balanced diet, staying active, managing your weight, and avoiding harmful things like alcohol and some medications can help keep your liver healthy. It's important to understand your liver health with the help of a healthcare provider for better management and recovery.

Ref: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168827818323882