Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver that affects over a million people throughout the world each year. It causes the liver to swell and triggers symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, and nausea. Generally, the symptoms are mild and subside within a few weeks, but some cases can be serious. Fortunately, if you understand how hepatitis A is transmitted, you may reduce your chances of acquiring it or passing it along if you should happen to get it. Poor-Quality Drinking Water or Well ... [Read More]
liver damage
What Causes Hepatitis B?
There are approximately 1.2 million people in the United States who have hepatitis B, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a division of the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). This is a type of liver infection that is caused by the hepatitis B virus, or HBV. There are two main types of hepatitis B: acute and chronic. If you have acute hepatitis B, you should be able to recover from the disease within about six months; however, it can become chronic. ... [Read More]
Liver Diseases and Causes
The liver is the second-largest organ in the body behind the skin. It helps the body digest food, store energy, and filter out toxins. Liver disease can occur due to many possible sources – basically, any condition that can damage the liver can cause or contribute to liver disease. Hepatitis A, B, and C are common causes. Heavy drinking and drug use are common causes of fatty liver disease (a buildup of fat in the liver) and cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver. Genetics can predispose a person ... [Read More]
What Causes Liver Disease?
Did you know that your liver is the largest internal organ of your body? Your liver is responsible for a multitude of different jobs in the body, including metabolic, detoxification, and functional processes. The major function of your liver is to produce bile, which is then stored in your gallbladder and used to help break down food during digestion. Your liver kills germs that enter your body through the intestinal tract. Your liver is also responsible for metabolizing items that pass ... [Read More]
How Alcohol Affects Your Digestive System
Here’s a toast to those who either drink in moderation or don’t drink at all. By drinking, of course, we’re talking about the consumption of alcoholic beverages. Why does it matter? Because consuming alcohol can damage your digestive system and can increase your risk of cancer and liver disease. How Your Digestive System Processes Alcohol Your digestive system includes more than just your stomach and intestines. It also includes your mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, pancreas, and anus. Each ... [Read More]
