According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), liver diseases are the 10^th most common cause of death among Indians. Wondering how to ensure you live the healthiest lifestyle for your liver?  Well, building awareness and understanding of how important the liver for your body is can make a huge difference.

But, with so many misconceptions about liver diseases, are you perplexed about what to believe and what not to? The best liver doctor in Kolkata reveals the truth behind some myths.

Check out below to learn what truth is and what fiction is when it comes to the causes of liver diseases.

1. Myth: Liver Conditions Can Be Detected With A Simple Blood Test

Fact: Doctors seldom suggest the specific blood tests needed to check liver function. Underlying issues cannot be detected just through transaminase levels. Patients should also be tested for the ALT and AST markers, which could show signs of cell destruction in the liver, and alkaline phosphates that can detect a reduction in bile secretion from the liver.

2. Myth: Drinking Whisky Or Rum Is Worse Than Drinking Beer Or Wine

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, the kind of alcohol you consume does not make any difference. In reality, what matters is the quantity of alcohol you drink. Rum and whisky contain around 45% alcohol, whereas wine contains around 10% and beer contains 5%

While drinking “good quality” alcohol may make you feel better, it doesn’t make the alcoholic drinks they contain any less damaging to the liver. Keep in mind that heavy drinkers are much more likely to have a greater risk of liver damage caused by alcohol.

3. Myth: Only Adults Get Liver Disorders

Fact: Hundreds and thousands of children worldwide get hospitalized every year for liver disorders. Some of the most common liver conditions in children are Wilson’s disease, viral hepatitis, viral hepatitis, fatty liver, metabolic diseases, and so on. Even though genetics are the major cause of liver diseases in children, obese children are at increased risk of developing fatty livers. So, both adults and children can seek liver treatment in Kolkata.

4. Myth: A Liver Transplant Cures Liver Disease

Fact: Liver transplants are considered as the last resort for people with end-stage liver disease. However, the reality is that they aren’t the cure. For fortunate individuals, liver transplants might be life-saving. But, the ideal result isn’t always achieved. After a transplant, your body may reject the new liver or your new liver can be the victim of the original liver disease once again. You might need medications for a lifetime.

5. Myth: Cirrhosis Doesn’t Affect Those Who Do Not Consume Alcohol

Fact: Although alcoholism is a major reason that causes liver cirrhosis, it isn’t the only reason. Experts at a reputable liver clinic say that severe scarring of your liver can be caused even by various injuries made to your liver. Hereditary disorders, improper diet, jaundice, copper or iron overload, hepatitis B or C, and more are some of the other prevalent causes of liver cirrhosis that can affect an individual who doesn’t drink alcohol.

6. Myth: Only Alcohol Consumption Damages The Liver

Fact: Indeed, alcohol consumption damages the liver. However, there are several other ways you liver can sustain damages. Several aspects contribute to liver damage and excessive alcohol consumption is just one of them. Diabetes, obesity, unhealthy diet, genetics, drugs and toxins, high cholesterol, and autoimmune diseases are all significant causes of liver diseases. No matter whether you feel reliant on alcohol or not, alcoholic drinks over the recommended ‘safe limit’ might put your body at the risk of fatty liver.

7. Myth: Fatty Liver Affects Only Obese People

Fact: Even though the fatty liver is common among obese people, it can be present in non-obese individuals too. People of any bodyweight can suffer from fatty liver disease even if they don’t have any underlying health problem. The reality is that fatty liver can be the result of living an unhealthy lifestyle, not eating the right food, or not exercising regularly.

Takeaway:

Both men and women are susceptible to developing liver diseases. So, it is important to manage your eating habits and lifestyle regardless of your gender. And, if you want to maintain good liver health or are concerned about your liver condition, find a top Gastro & liver doctor in Kolkata!