What causes liver disease?

There are numerous different causes of liver disease, and they can be broadly categorised into the following groups:

* Viral hepatitis: This is the most common cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Hepatitis viruses, such as hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, can cause liver inflammation and damage.

* Alcoholic liver disease: Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to liver damage, including alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis.

* Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): This is a condition in which fat accumulates in the liver, not due to alcohol consumption. NAFLD can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure.

* Cirrhosis: This is a late stage of liver disease in which the liver becomes scarred and damaged. Cirrhosis can be caused by various causes, including viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, NAFLD, and certain genetic disorders.

* Other causes: Liver disease can also be caused by certain medications, toxins, autoimmune disorders, genetic disorders, and metabolic disorders. Some examples include autoimmune hepatitis, hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease, and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

It is important to note that liver disease can be preventable in many cases. For instance, reducing alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding high-risk sexual behaviour (for viral hepatitis B and C), and following proper medication instructions can help reduce the risk of liver damage. If you have concerns about liver disease or experience symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, and fatigue, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.