What does the liver have to do with the digestive system? Everything.The liver is important for:
- Cleaning the blood from toxins and waste
- The liver stores energy from foods consumed
- The liver produces bile, which is a digestive liquid necessary to:
- Absorb fats in the bloodstream
- Remove waste
The liver is only one aspect of an entire system managed in hepatology. However, this post examines mainly the liver, its diseases and how they are managed or treated.Common ailments of the liver include:
- Cirrhosis
- Hepatitis
- Liver cancer
- Jaundice
- Cholestatis
- Liver inflammation
A gastroenterologist can provide consistent support for those who suffer from liver problems, which are directly related to the digestive system. Other branches of hepatology cover the gallbladder, the biliary tree and also the pancreas. These all affect digestive health.Patients that are most affected by liver problems include:
- Those who drink alcohol regularly and excessively
- Those who have a history with hepatitis B
- Those who smoke excessively
Hepatology is practiced separately or in the office of a certified gastroenterologist. The gastroenterologist will perform checkups, screenings, and manage patients who have problems with the liver.An hepatologist differs from a regular physician as he or she will have undergone extensive training in diseases and treatments related to the liver, gallbladder, pancreas and biliary tree. It is important to consult a gastroenterologist, and more specifically a hepatologist, if you have persistent symptoms associated with liver diseases.