LIVER BASICS
This organ performs over 500 vital functions in the body
Liver
This is the process the liver uses to remove toxins from the blood
Detoxification
This long-term habit is the most common cause of cirrhosis
Chronic alcohol use
Yellowing of the skin and eyes
Jaundice
This brain condition occurs from toxin buildup like ammonia
Hepatic encephalopathy
This substance is produced by the liver to help digest fats
Bile
The liver stores this for energy
Glycogen
These two viral infections can lead to cirrhosis
Hepatitis B and C
Fluid buildup in the abdomen
Ascites
Confusion, mood changes, and slurred speech can be signs of this condition
Hepatic encephalopathy
These cells are the main working cells of the liver
Hepatocytes
The liver helps make these proteins needed to stop bleeding
Clotting factors
This liver condition is linked to obesity and can lead to cirrhosis
Fatty liver disease
This symptom causes intense itching of the skin
Pruritus
This is the only definitive treatment for advanced cirrhosis
Liver transplant
This is where the liver is located in the body
Right upper abdomen (under right rib cage)
The liver processes these substances that can damage it over time
Alcohol, medications, toxins
This condition causes iron buildup in the liver
Hemochromatosis
This happens when estrogen increases in males causing breast enlargement
Gynecomastia
This complication happens when pressure increases in liver blood vessels
Portal hypertension
These are the functional units of the liver arranged in a hexagonal shape
Lobules
This vessel brings nutrient-rich blood from the intestines to the liver
Portal vein
This disease causes copper buildup in the liver
Wilson disease
These enlarged veins can bleed and are found in the esophagus
Esophageal varices
Stopping this habit is critical to prevent cirrhosis from worsening
Alcohol use