Looking after your liver
18 October 2018
Consultant Gastroenterologist, Dr Mohamed Shariff, has introduced a liver screening service at Spire Bushey Hospital, available on Wednesday evenings. This is for self-pay patients and includes new and follow up consultations, blood tests and a liver ultrasound scan for £600.
More than 90% of all liver disease is preventable if detected early enough. Liver disease takes many years to develop and much of it is reversible if the problem is detected early and the correct actions are taken. Unfortunately, as the liver “suffers in silence” background damage often occurs without the patient being aware of it.
In the UK, the major contributors to liver disease are alcohol and fatty liver. Even regular drinking over recommended levels can be harmful.
The main cause of fatty liver is obesity. Fatty liver, if left unchecked can eventually lead to liver failure. Fatty liver is also a marker of risk for other life-threatening illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, so detecting it early can have huge benefits for the patient.
Tips for helping your liver:
- Drink less than 14 units of alcohol a week and try and have three alcohol-free days.
- Limit the amount of processed foods, fat and sugar you eat. Even losing 10% of your total body weight has been shown to improve liver health.
- Take regular exercise.
- If you’re struggling to reduce your alcohol consumption, your GP or local addiction services can also help.
Dr Mohamed Shariff is a leading consultant gastroenterologist at Spire Bushey Hospital.
Read more about liver disease visit www.myliverhealth.co.uk
