What are the top causes of elevated liver enzymes in dogs? What should you do if your dog has elevated liver enzymes? Get answers to these questions and more.

Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes in Dogs

As a pet owner, you want the best for your furry friend. It can be concerning and overwhelming when your dog’s routine bloodwork shows elevated liver enzymes. But what does this mean, and what are the potential causes? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the top reasons for increased liver enzymes in dogs and provide you with the information you need to ensure your canine companion’s health.

What Are Liver Enzymes?

Liver enzymes, such as alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), are proteins found within the cells of the liver. These enzymes play a crucial role in various metabolic processes. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, these enzymes can leak into the bloodstream, resulting in elevated levels that can be detected through a simple blood test.

Common Causes of Elevated Liver Enzymes in Dogs

There are several potential causes for elevated liver enzymes in dogs. Let’s explore the top culprits:

1. Hepatitis

Hepatitis, or inflammation of the liver, can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral infections, bacterial infections, and autoimmune disorders. This condition can lead to a significant increase in liver enzyme levels.

2. Liver Disease

Chronic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis or liver cancer, can cause a steady rise in liver enzyme levels over time. These conditions may be associated with other symptoms, such as weight loss, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

3. Medication Toxicity

Certain medications, including some antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and antiseizure medications, can cause liver damage and elevated enzyme levels. It’s crucial to inform your veterinarian about any medications your dog is taking.

4. Obesity and Diabetes

Excess weight and diabetes can contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can lead to elevated liver enzymes.

5. Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, can also cause a rise in liver enzyme levels, as the pancreas and liver are closely connected.

6. Toxin Exposure

Exposure to certain toxins, such as chemicals, plants, or medications, can damage the liver and lead to elevated enzyme levels.

What to Do If Your Dog Has Elevated Liver Enzymes

If your dog’s routine bloodwork shows elevated liver enzymes, don’t panic. The first step is to schedule a follow-up appointment with your veterinarian. They will likely perform additional tests, such as a comprehensive metabolic panel, to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Diagnostic Tests for Elevated Liver Enzymes

Your veterinarian may recommend one or more of the following tests to identify the root cause of your dog’s elevated liver enzymes:

• Comprehensive metabolic panel: This blood test provides a more detailed assessment of your dog’s overall health, including kidney function, electrolyte levels, and additional liver enzymes.
• Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging technique can help your veterinarian visualize the liver and detect any abnormalities, such as masses or inflammation.
• Biopsy: In some cases, a liver biopsy may be necessary to obtain a tissue sample for further analysis and diagnosis.

Treatment for Elevated Liver Enzymes

The treatment for elevated liver enzymes in dogs will depend on the underlying cause. Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to address the specific condition, such as anti-inflammatory drugs for hepatitis or dietary changes for NAFLD. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a tumor or other liver-related problem.

Preventing Elevated Liver Enzymes in Dogs

While some causes of elevated liver enzymes are beyond your control, there are steps you can take to support your dog’s liver health and minimize the risk of liver-related issues:

1. Maintain a healthy weight: Ensure your dog is at a healthy weight and not overweight or obese, as excess weight can contribute to liver problems.
2. Provide a balanced diet: Feed your dog a high-quality, balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs and supports liver function.
3. Limit exposure to toxins: Be mindful of potential toxins in your home and yard, and keep your dog away from known liver-damaging substances.
4. Monitor medication usage: If your dog is taking any medications, work closely with your veterinarian to ensure they are not causing liver damage.
5. Schedule regular check-ups: Regular veterinary check-ups and bloodwork can help catch any liver-related issues early, allowing for prompt treatment and management.

Conclusion

Elevated liver enzymes in dogs can be concerning, but understanding the potential causes and working closely with your veterinarian can help ensure your canine companion’s health and well-being. By being proactive about your dog’s liver health, you can help them live a long, happy, and healthy life.

AST Test: MedlinePlus Medical Test

What is an AST Test?

AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme that is found mostly in the liver, but it’s also in muscles and other organs in your body. When cells that contain AST are damaged, they release the AST into your blood. An AST blood test measures the amount of AST in your blood. The test is commonly used to help diagnose liver damage or disease.

Other names: SGOT test, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase test; aspartate transaminase test

What is it used for?

An AST blood test is often part of a routine blood screening to check the health of your liver. The test may help diagnose or monitor liver problems. It may also help diagnose other health conditions.

Why do I need an AST blood test?

You may get an AST blood test as part of your routine checkup or if you have symptoms of liver damage. These may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Lack of appetite
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Jaundice, a condition that causes your skin and eyes to turn yellow
• Swelling and/or pain in your abdomen (belly)
• Swelling in your ankles and legs
• Dark-colored urine (pee) and/or light-colored stool (poop)
• Frequent itching

Even if you don’t have symptoms, your health care provider may order an AST blood test if you’re more likely to develop liver disease because of:

• A family history of liver disease
• Alcohol use disorder
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Taking certain medicines that can cause liver damage
• Hepatitis or exposure to hepatitis

What happens during an AST blood test?

A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

You don’t need any special preparations for an AST blood test. But an AST test is usually ordered with other blood tests. You usually need to fast (not eat or drink) for up to 12 hours before these tests. Your provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow.

Are there any risks to the test?

There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.

What do the results mean?

High levels of AST in the blood may be a sign of hepatitis, cirrhosis, mononucleosis, or other liver diseases. High AST levels may also be a sign of heart problems or pancreatitis.

If your results are not in the normal range, it doesn’t always mean that you have a medical condition that needs treatment. Many things can affect your results, such as certain medicines and your age, sex, and diet. To learn what your results mean, talk with your provider.

Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.

Is there anything else I need to know about an AST blood test?

Your health care provider may order an ALT blood test with your AST blood test. ALT stands for alanine transaminase, which is another type of liver enzyme. If you have high levels of AST and/or ALT, it may mean that you have some type of liver damage.

You may also have an AST test as part of a group of liver function tests that measure ALT, and other enzymes, proteins, and substances in the liver.

References

1. American Liver Foundation. [Internet]. New York: American Liver Foundation; c2017. Diagnosing Liver Disease – Liver Biopsy and Liver Function Tests; [updated 2020 Feb 17; cited 2022 Feb 14]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://liverfoundation. org/for-patients/about-the-liver/diagnosing-liver-disease/
2. Hinkle J, Cheever K. Brunner & Suddarth’s Handbook of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. 2nd Ed, Kindle. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer Health, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; c2014. Aspartate Aminotransferase; p. 68–69.
3. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Blood Tests; [cited 2022 Feb 14]; [about 15 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-tests
4. Testing.com [Internet]. Seattle (WA).: OneCare Media; c2022. Aspartate Aminotransferase: The Test; [modified 2021 Nov 9; cited 2022 Feb 14; [about 14 screens]. Available from: https://www.testing.com/test/aspartate-aminotransferase-ast/
5. University of Rochester Medical Center [Internet]. Rochester (NY): University of Rochester Medical Center; c2017. Health Encyclopedia: Aspartate Transaminase; [cited 2017 Mar 13]; [about 2 screens]. Available from: https://www. urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=aspartate_transaminase

The Top Causes Of Elevated Liver Enzymes In Dogs

As a pet owner, you want the best for your furry friend. It can be concerning and overwhelming when your dog’s blood work comes back with elevated liver enzymes. However, it’s essential to understand that elevated liver enzymes in dogs are not a disease, but rather a sign that something is going on with the liver. The liver is a vital organ responsible for various metabolic functions, including detoxification and protein synthesis. When the liver is affected, it can lead to an increase in liver enzymes in the blood. There are many possible causes of elevated liver enzymes in dogs, ranging from benign conditions to severe diseases. In this article, we’ll explore the different causes of elevated liver enzymes in dogs so you can have a better understanding of what is going on with your dog.

What are liver enzymes?

Liver enzymes are proteins produced by the liver that help carry out various metabolic functions in the body. These enzymes are released into the bloodstream in small amounts and play a crucial role in breaking down and metabolizing different substances such as drugs, metabolites, and toxins. In dogs, the most commonly measured liver enzymes in blood tests are alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP).

ALT and AST are enzymes that are present in the liver cells, and their levels in the blood increase when there is damage or inflammation in the liver. AST is also found in skeletal muscle. ALP, on the other hand, is an enzyme that is present both in the liver and bones. An increase in ALP levels in the blood can indicate liver damage or disease, as well as bone growth secondary to certain medications such as prednisone and phenobarbital.

While it is important to understand that not all elevations in liver enzymes in dogs are suggestive of liver disease, in most cases, elevated liver enzymes in dogs are a sign that there is something going on in the liver, and further diagnostic testing is required to determine the underlying cause. It’s important to keep in mind that elevated liver enzymes in dogs are not a specific diagnosis, but rather an indication that something is affecting the liver.

What causes elevated liver enzymes in dogs?

There are many reasons for high liver enzymes in dogs. Veterinarians typically separate them into two categories: hepatic and extrahepatic.

Hepatic causes of elevated liver enzymes in dogs

Hepatic causes of high liver enzymes in dogs refer to conditions that affect the liver directly, leading to liver damage and subsequent increases in liver enzymes. Some common hepatic causes of elevated liver enzymes in dogs include:

• Hepatitis: Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver and can be caused by viral, bacterial, or inflammatory factors.
• Benign nodular hyperplasia: Benign nodular hyperplasia is a condition commonly seen in older dogs in which the liver develops multiple small non-cancerous nodules.
• Drug-induced: Certain drugs, such as steroids (e. g. prednisone) and phenobarbital, can cause elevated liver enzymes in dogs, especially ALP.
• Congenital liver diseases: Certain liver diseases, such as portosystemic liver shunts and copper storage diseases, are inherited and can cause liver enzyme levels to increase.
• Toxins: Certain toxins can induce the activity of liver enzymes in dogs. These can include xylitol, aflatoxins and lead toxicity for example.
• Cholangitis: Cholangitis refers to inflammation of the bile ducts that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. It can cause liver damage and elevated liver enzymes.
• Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease that leads to scarring and permanent damage to the liver. It can be caused by chronic infections, exposure to toxins, or chronic active hepatitis.
• Liver cancer: Diffuse cancer in the liver, whether malignant or benign, can cause liver enzyme levels to increase. Common cancers that can affect the liver include lymphoma, carcinoma and hemangiosarcoma.

Extrahepatic causes of elevated liver enzymes in dogs

Extrahepatic causes of elevated liver enzymes in dogs refer to conditions outside the liver that can affect liver enzyme levels. Some common extrahepatic causes of elevated liver enzymes in dogs include:

• Pancreatitis: Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and can cause liver enzyme levels to rise due to inflammation spreading to the liver.
• Diabetes: Dogs with diabetes can have elevated liver enzymes due to the negative metabolic state (subclinical hepatic lipidosis).
• Cushing’s disease: Dogs with Cushing’s disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, can have elevated liver enzymes due to excess steroid production leading to swelling of the liver.
• Heart disease: Right-sided heart disease can cause liver congestion, leading to elevated liver enzyme levels.
• Inflammatory bowel disease: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can cause elevated liver enzyme levels due to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

These illnesses can lead to a reactive/vacuolar hepatopathy, causing an increase in liver enzymes but normally there is no impact on the functioning of the liver.

Do all elevated liver enzymes need to be investigated further?

No, elevated liver enzymes in dogs do not always need to be investigated further. In mild cases of elevated liver enzymes, your veterinarian may recommend periodic blood testing to start trending the values before recommending further testing. Generally speaking, liver enzyme values greater than 2-3 times the upper limit of normal should be investigated as they can indicate a more serious condition. This is also assuming the dog is asymptomatic and there are no abnormalities on its physical exam.

Certain medications such as corticosteroids (prednisone) and phenobarbital will predictably cause elevated liver enzymes in dogs, especially the ALP. In these cases, the elevated liver enzyme values are not indicative of liver disease and will usually resolve with the discontinuation of the medication.

Additionally, young dogs with an elevated ALP may not need to be investigated further as this could be due to skeletal growth and development. Your veterinarian may recommend periodic blood testing to ensure the elevated liver enzyme values do not persist or cause any issues.

Finally, elevated liver enzymes in dogs can be observed as part of an aging process, as normal age-related changes occur to cause increased activity of certain enzymes. Examples include nodular and vacuolar hepatopathy. In this case, your veterinarian may recommend periodic blood testing every 4-6 months.

In conclusion, elevated liver enzymes in dogs can be caused by a variety of conditions, both within and outside the liver. In mild cases of elevated liver enzymes, periodic blood testing may be all that is needed to ensure there are no more serious underlying issues. However, if your dog’s elevated enzyme levels persist or become particularly high (greater than 2-3 times the upper limit of normal), further investigation should be done as soon as possible. Additionally, certain medications such as corticosteroids and phenobarbital will predictably cause elevated values but these usually resolve with discontinuation of the medication. Finally, elevated liver enzymes in young dogs could be due to skeletal growth and development, or part of an aging process. It is important to work with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your individual dog.

how to recognize and what to do?

Contents

• 1 Symptoms of liver and pancreas disease in men: how to recognize and treat in a timely manner?
  • 1.1 General information about diseases of the liver and pancreas
    • 1.1.1 Liver
    • 1.1.2 Pancreas
  • 1.2 Jaundice: symptoms and causes
    • 1.2.1 What is jaundice?
    • 1.2.2 Causes of jaundice
    • 1.2.3 Symptoms of jaundice
    • 1.2.4 How to diagnose jaundice?
  • 1.3 Enlargement of the abdomen in diseases of the liver and pancreas in men
  • 1. 4 Abdominal pain in diseases of the liver and pancreas in men
  • 1.5 Symptoms of liver and pancreas disease in men: Decreased appetite

  9000 5 1.6 Fatigue and weakness in diseases of the liver and pancreas

  • 1.7 Digestive disorders in diseases of the liver and pancreas in men
    • 1.7.1 Abdominal pain
    • 1.7.2 Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract
    • 1.7.3 Changes in the color and consistency of feces
    • 1.7.4 Lack of appetite
  • 1.8 Symptoms of liver and pancreas disease in men 900 04
  • 1.8.1 Flatulence
• 1.9 Symptoms of liver and pancreas disease in men
  • 1.9.1 Weight loss
• 1.10 Memory and concentration disorders
• 1.11 Metabolic problems in liver and pancreas disease in men
  • 1.11.1 Protein metabolism disorders
  • 1.11.2 Fat metabolism disorders
  • 1.11.3 Pancreatic cell destruction
• 1.12 Related videos:
• 1 . 13 Q&A:
  • • 1.13.0.1 What are the symptoms indicate problems with the liver and pancreas in men?
    • 1.13.0.2 Which male specimens are at risk for liver and pancreatic disease?
    • 1.13.0.3 What methods of medical diagnostics help to identify diseases of the liver and pancreas in men?
    • 1.13.0.4 How can liver and pancreas problems in men be avoided?
    • 1.13.0.5 What role does nutrition play in the prevention of liver and pancreatic disease in men?
    • 1.13.0.6 What should I do if a man has liver and pancreas problems?

Learn about the symptoms of liver and pancreas diseases in men: jaundice, abdominal enlargement and other signs. Early detection helps prevent the development of serious complications.

The liver and pancreas are two of the most important organs in the human body. They process food, produce the necessary enzymes and hormones, and remove toxins from our body. However, these organs can be subject to various diseases that manifest themselves with different symptoms.
One of the most common diseases of the liver is cirrhosis, which occurs as a result of permanent damage to the organ. With cirrhosis of the liver cells, they are destroyed and replaced by a solid tissue, which leads to a disruption in the proper functioning of the organ. Symptoms of liver cirrhosis in men are expressed in loss of appetite, severe weight loss, lack of energy and strength, as well as pain in the stomach.
Diseases of the pancreas are also associated with indigestion and inflammation of these organs. The most common disease is chronic pancreatitis, which is accompanied by pain in the abdomen, indigestion, severe heartburn, nausea and metabolic disorders.

General information about diseases of the liver and pancreas

Liver

The liver is an important organ that performs many functions, including blood purification, hormone and bile synthesis, metabolism, etc. Many diseases can affect its functioning, causing symptoms that are important not to ignore.

• Jaundice – characterized by yellowness of the eye sclera, skin and nails;
• Itching of the skin – may be accompanied by rashes, swelling and dehydration;
• Liver enlargement – may not present with symptoms but may cause abdominal discomfort or pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen;
• Worse general condition – feeling tired, insomnia, weight loss, muscle and joint pain;
• Other signs – indigestion, swelling of the abdomen, cuts and bruises on the skin, tendency to bleed, etc.

Pancreas

The pancreas produces insulin and other substances necessary for proper digestion, so diseases can seriously affect a person’s health.

• Pancreatitis – may present with acute or chronic abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea;
• Diabetes – expressed by elevated blood sugar levels, increased urine production, itching, wounds, dry skin;
• Cancer – can be manifested by pain, indigestion, weight loss, jaundice, diabetes;
• Other diseases – indigestion, jaundice, acute reaction to alcohol, etc.

Jaundice: symptoms and causes

What is jaundice?

Jaundice is a pathological condition in which the skin, mucous membranes and sclera of the eyes become yellow due to a violation of the metabolism of bilirubin, a yellow pigment formed during the breakdown of red blood cells.

Causes of jaundice

Jaundice can result from diseases of various organs, including the liver and pancreas. Violation of the process of removing bilirubin can be caused by bile stasis and damage to the biliary tract, as well as inflammation, tumors or injuries of the liver and pancreas.

Symptoms of jaundice

• Yellow discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes and sclera of the eyes
• Dark urine and discoloration of the stool
• General weakness, fatigue and increased nervousness
• Fever, nausea and vomiting
• Pain in the right hypochondrium, enlargement of the liver and gallbladder

How to diagnose jaundice?

To diagnose jaundice, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination, including blood for the content of bilirubin and other indicators, ultrasound, X-ray and biopsy of the above organs.

Enlargement of the abdomen in diseases of the liver and pancreas in men

One of the most common symptoms of liver and pancreas damage in men is an increase in the size of the abdomen. This can be caused by a buildup of fluid in the abdomen called ascites, which is often accompanied by excess weight and swelling in the lower body.

Tumors or cysts in these organs or their surrounding tissues may be other factors that cause enlargement of the abdomen with damage to the liver and pancreas. It should also be noted that abdominal enlargement may be due to other problems not related to the digestive system, so it is necessary to consult a doctor to clarify the diagnosis and determine the correct treatment.

Abdominal pain in liver and pancreas diseases in men

Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms of liver and pancreas diseases in men. An unpleasant sensation can have different intensity and be located in different areas of the abdomen.

In diseases of the liver, pain may occur in the right hypochondrium, often accompanied by heaviness and discomfort. There may also be sensations of fullness, burning pain or a stabbing character.

If the pancreas is affected, pain may be localized in the epigastrium, left or right iliac region. Pain can be caused by inflammation or swelling of the pancreas, dysfunction, and others.

Symptoms of liver and pancreas disease in men: Loss of appetite

Loss of appetite may be one of the first signs of liver or pancreas disease in men. This symptom can manifest itself in different ways: from frequent desires to snack to a complete lack of taste for food.

Decreased appetite can be explained by several reasons:

• Metabolic disorders in the main vital organs;
• Formation of fluid in the body that causes swelling of the internal organs and disrupts their functioning;
• Toxic effect due to liver and pancreas disorders;
• Acute inflammatory disease of the liver or pancreas;
• Chronic hepatitis requiring mandatory treatment;

If loss of appetite persists for several days, seek medical attention. Doctors will conduct the necessary tests and studies to identify the cause of this symptom and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Doctors recommend following a healthy lifestyle, eating right and giving up bad habits in order to maintain a healthy liver and pancreas.

Fatigue and weakness due to diseases of the liver and pancreas

Chronic diseases of the liver and pancreas often present with fatigue and weakness. First of all, this is due to the fact that damaged organs do not perform their function correctly, which leads to metabolic disorders and a lack of elements important for the body. This, in turn, leads to a deterioration in overall well-being and a feeling of fatigue.

Liver and pancreas are responsible for the processing and breakdown of nutrients, as well as for the production of bile and insulin. In diseases of these organs, their functioning is disrupted, and this leads to the fact that the body does not receive the necessary energy, which leads to a feeling of weakness and fatigue.

Are fatigue and weakness symptoms of liver and pancreas diseases? Yes, this is one of the first symptoms of diseases of these organs. But do not forget that these symptoms can occur with many other diseases. Also, fatigue and weakness can be caused by ordinary fatigue or lack of sleep. Therefore, if these symptoms appear regularly, you should consult a doctor to diagnose and rule out serious diseases of the liver or pancreas.

• Feeling weak and tired may be accompanied by other symptoms such as:
  1. nausea;
  2. vomiting;
  3. elevated body temperature;
  4. pain in the right hypochondrium;
  5. stool disorders (often constipation).

Digestive disorders in diseases of the liver and pancreas in men

Abdominal pain

One of the most striking manifestations of liver and pancreas diseases in men is abdominal pain. These pains can manifest as either acute or dull pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, which is aggravated by eating, especially fatty food, and can last for several hours.

Gastrointestinal disorders

Liver and pancreas disorders in men may also cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea or constipation. It is also possible the appearance of frequent and profuse vomiting, which is accompanied by an unpleasant odor and bitterness in the mouth.

Changes in the color and consistency of feces

In diseases of the liver and pancreas in men, there are also changes in the color and consistency of feces, which is associated with inadequate digestion. The stool may become light, clayey, or yellowish. Digestive disorders can also lead to gas and bloating.

Lack of appetite

Lack of appetite is also a characteristic symptom of diseases of the liver and pancreas in men. The body does not receive enough nutrients, which can adversely affect overall health. In this regard, at the first manifestations of these symptoms, it is necessary to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the liver and pancreas.

Symptoms of liver and pancreas disease in men

Flatulence

Flatulence is the presence of excess gas in the intestines, which can be one of the symptoms of diseases of the liver and pancreas in men. In patients with these diseases, there is an increase in gas formation and frequent problems with the stomach and intestines.

This may be due to the poor functioning of these organs and the difficulty in processing food, which in turn can lead to a lack of synthesis of the necessary enzymes.

In the presence of such symptoms, it is necessary to consult a gastroenterologist for a full examination and treatment. Do not self-medicate, as this can aggravate the situation and lead to serious complications.

Symptoms of liver and pancreas disease in men

Weight loss

One of the most common symptoms of liver and pancreas disease in men is weight loss. Most often, this manifests itself in people who have not previously had problems with being overweight, but suddenly begin to quickly lose kilograms even without changing their diet or exercise regimen.

If you are losing weight, you should consult a doctor and conduct a comprehensive examination to identify possible causes of this symptom. Your doctor may test your hormone levels, check your liver and pancreas, and order additional tests, such as an ultrasound.

Memory and concentration disorders

The liver and pancreas often play an important role in the processes of memory and concentration in men. Violations of the work of these organs can cause various problems in this area.

A possible sign of impaired memory and concentration in men is weakness, fatigue and drowsiness during the day. These symptoms may be related to toxins that build up in the body when the liver and pancreas are not working properly.

Another common symptom is difficulty concentrating and remembering information. It can be associated with excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and unhealthy diet. It is important to ensure that you eat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, which are essential for liver and pancreas health.

• To avoid impaired memory and concentration, it is useful:
• Avoid malnutrition,
• Monitor alcohol and nicotine intake,
• Promote liver and pancreas health,
• Get regular health checks with specialists,
• Listen to your body and immediately ask for help if necessary.

All of these measures will help maintain the health of the liver and pancreas, as well as prevent possible memory and concentration problems. Following these tips will also improve the quality of life and help prevent problems associated with these two organs in men.

Metabolic problems in liver and pancreas disease in men

Protein metabolism disorders

The liver plays an important role in protein metabolism in the body. With her illness, deviations from the norm of the content of a protein compound in the blood can be observed. Tissue edema, ascites, and damage to the heart muscle are possible. Protein can be excreted in the urine, which can lead to amino acid deficiency and chronic glomerulonephritis.

Fat metabolism disorders

The liver also metabolizes fats in the body. With her disease, a violation of the function of the gallbladder can occur, which can lead to a violation of food digestion and a violation of dysbacteriosis of the gastrointestinal tract. In some cases, men can develop the effects of fatty degeneration, which can lead to obesity and an increased risk of developing diabetes.

Destruction of pancreatic cells

The pancreas is an important organ for carbohydrate metabolism in the body. With her illness, the effects of a lack of insulin and sucrose in the blood may occur. This can lead to the development of diabetes, hypoglycemia and metabolic disturbance. In some cases, pancreatic diseases can occur with excessive stress on the body, for example, when drinking alcohol and some other harmful substances.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the symptoms of liver and pancreas problems in men?

Men may experience the following symptoms: jaundice, itching, abdominal enlargement, nausea, vomiting, pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, digestive problems, frequent urination, weight loss, increased fatigue, changes in the color and consistency of feces, increased body temperature.

Which male specimens are at risk of developing liver and pancreatic diseases?

The risk of developing diseases of the liver and pancreas increases in men who abuse alcohol, smoke, eat junk food, are obese, have diabetes, are in stressful situations, and take medications.

What methods of medical diagnostics help to identify diseases of the liver and pancreas in men?

Medical diagnosis of diseases of the liver and pancreas in men is carried out using various methods: blood tests, ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, liver biopsy and others.

How can liver and pancreas problems in men be avoided?

Men can avoid liver and pancreas problems by giving up bad habits, limiting the use of drugs, leading a healthy lifestyle, undergoing annual medical examinations and not ignoring their health problems.

What role does nutrition play in the prevention of liver and pancreatic disease in men?

Proper nutrition plays an important role in the prevention of liver and pancreas diseases in men. It is recommended to eat more fruits and vegetables, low-fat foods, fish, serve less salt, drink alcohol and nicotine moderately, drink water often, do not abuse coffee and sweets.

What to do if a man has liver and pancreas problems?

If a man has problems with the liver and pancreas, then you need to see a doctor and prescribe treatment. The doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, diets, and medications. In more severe cases, surgery may be required.

Liver diseases EUROPEAN RADIOLOGICAL CENTER.

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Thursday, 27 January 2022

Liver is the largest internal human organ. Liver diseases develop slowly and asymptomatically, smoothly flowing from one state to another.

First appears fatty degeneration of the liver. This is when, as a result of a violation of metabolic processes, fat begins to be deposited in the liver cells, thereby provoking their decay and leading to inflammation. At this stage, the process is reversible and treatable. Then there is fibrosis. At this stage, the process is already irreversible, but with the right supportive therapy, a person can lead a full-fledged lifestyle. At the stage of cirrhosis and oncology, in order to prolong the patient’s life, expensive treatment is required, and the only solution to the problem is only a liver transplant.

At what stage does a patient usually seek help? Mostly this happens late, at the stage of cirrhosis, less often at the initial stages of fibrosis.

This is because only at these stages the liver shows the first symptoms of malaise, which, moreover, still very vaguely indicate that this is it.

Such symptoms include:

• Increased fatigue, loss of strength, decreased ability to work, lack of mood, depression, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite. In such cases, people are looking for a solution to the problem in the rest, take a vacation, go to nature, walk more. And it would be more correct to go and take a blood clinic, liver tests, undergo an ultrasound of the liver, which will tell you exactly what the change in well-being is connected with.
• Jaundice. Yellowing of the mucous membranes, especially the sclera and skin, is the result of an increase in the level of bilirubin in the blood, a pigment that normally binds in the liver and is excreted from the body along with bile, feces and urine. Many do not pay attention to these symptoms, believing that this tan does not go away for a long time or the reason is sitting at the computer for a long time. Although jaundice may be the first manifestation of viral hepatitis. And again, the right decision should be to take tests for liver tests, viral hepatitis, ultrasound of the abdominal organs.
• Skin problems. Itching. Rash. Vascular asterisks, bruises, bruises. The accumulation of bile acids in the subcutaneous fat contributes to the appearance of itchy skin, and a rash can be a sign of the accumulation of toxic substances in the blood. Due to liver damage, clotting factors are not produced in the amount needed by the body, which contributes to the appearance of bruises, bruising on the skin, spider veins and prolongation of bleeding time. In this case, neither a cosmetologist, nor an allergist, nor a dermatologist will help you. The cause of the disease can again be identified if you pass tests for biochemistry – liver tests, a coagulogram.
• Pain in muscles and joints for no apparent reason. It’s not a pain in the ass or overwork.
• Dyspepsia – pain and heaviness in the stomach, nausea / vomiting, diarrhea / constipation, bloating. These symptoms may be the result of violations of the detoxification function of the liver, when the end products of metabolism are not excreted from the body, but circulate in the blood, leading to intoxication. Also, changes in the work of the gastrointestinal tract can be the result of changes in the production of bile by the liver due to a decrease in its function.
• Dull aching pain, feeling of discomfort, fullness in the right hypochondrium. For liver diseases, pain is a sign of a far advanced disease, since pain appears when the capsule that surrounds the liver is stretched. In turn, the liver parenchyma itself does not have nerve endings and therefore “the liver does not hurt.” Acute pain in the right hypochondrium requires the exclusion of diseases of the gallbladder.
• Sensation of bitterness and unpleasant taste in the mouth.
• Darkening of the urine and lightening of the feces is also associated with impaired bilirubin metabolism.
• Temperature increase. For liver diseases, an increase in temperature to subfebrile figures (not higher than 38 ° C) is characteristic. In liver cirrhosis, when the parenchyma is irreversibly replaced by connective tissue scars, the temperature can rise to 39-40°C, which is a poor prognostic sign.
• Edema of the legs, enlargement of the abdomen in size. The accumulation of fluid in the cavities is associated with an increase in pressure in the portal vein system and a decrease in the amount of albumin in the blood, a protein that is synthesized by the liver and retains fluid in the vessels, increasing the oncotic pressure of the plasma.

In any of the above cases, the first correct step towards solving the problem is the delivery of laboratory tests and the passage of ultrasound , which is best done on the recommendation of a gastroenterologist.

The list of tests can be quite large (clinical blood test, biochemistry – liver tests, blood glucose, cholesterol and its fractions, coagulogram, viral hepatitis test, liver tumor marker), but this does not mean that you need to take everything at once.

Decreased total protein, albumin, platelets, hemoglobin, iron, elevated levels of ALT, AST, GGT, bilirubin, changes in the coagulogram may be the only sign of liver damage.

Changes in the size and structure of the liver on ultrasound – hepatomegaly, diffuse changes in the liver, fatty degeneration, hepatosis, steatosis, the appearance of additional formations in the liver require assessment and interpretation of a gastroenterologist in order to start treatment in a timely manner and not miss the time.