The liver is located in the upper right quadrant of the abdominal cavity. It is shaped like a cone and weighs about three pounds. It filters the blood and breaks down things like drugs and alcohol. It also produces bile to break down fats. The liver is an amazing organ, and it does an important job when it is healthy. At Summit Digestive and Liver Disease Specialists in Chicago, IL, treating liver disease is what we do. Dr. David Chua, Dr. Rajeev Nayar, and Dr. Afreen Hyder see patients at four locations in Chicago, (two in the South Loop, one in Ravenswood, and one in Humboldt Park), as well as one in Oakbrook Terrace and one in Park Ridge, IL. 

Most liver disease is preventable with only a minority of cases being the result of genetic or autoimmune causes. Knowing how to protect your liver and the importance of its function to your health is essential.  

Causes of Liver Disease

 Lifestyle is one of the main causes of liver disease. If you are overindulging in alcohol, drugs, or fatty, sugary, or salty food, you may be damaging your liver. This can lead to cirrhosis of the liver and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Cirrhosis causes scar tissue to replace healthy tissue. Environmental exposure is also a potential danger for liver disease. 

Risk factors 

 A lifestyle that limits the intake of alcohol, all unnecessary drugs, and fatty foods can help to lower the risk factors for liver disease. Hepatitis is a disease that damages the liver, and we urge Chicago, IL, residents to get vaccinated when traveling abroad. Avoid sharing needles if you are using drugs. Cirrhosis of the liver is common among alcoholics. 

Illegal drugs are not the only drugs that can damage your liver. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen, aspirin, NSAIDS and herbal supplements can all cause liver damage. They should not be mixed with alcohol or taken in larger doses than recommended. Drug interactions are a serious consideration when it comes to your liver health. 

Don't assume that just because something is sold over the counter it is safe when combined with other medication. Herbal and OTC drugs need to be discussed with your doctor before combining with your prescriptions.  

Contact Dr. Chua, Dr. Nayar, and Dr. Hyder of Summit Digestive and Liver Disease Specialists when you need treatment for liver disease in the Chicago, IL, area. With four offices in Chicago, one in Oakbrook Terrance and one in Park Ridge, one is sure to be convenient. Give the office a call at (630) 889-9889.