Comprehensive Liver Disease Care in Mesa, Chandler & Gilbert, AZ

Liver disease affects millions of adults in the United States each year, with many cases progressing to serious complications if left untreated. At AZ Gastro Care, our specialized gastroenterologists provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options to manage liver conditions and improve long-term health. Our comprehensive, patient-centered approach ensures that every individual receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs.

What Is Liver Disease?

Liver disease refers to a broad range of conditions that impact the function and health of the liver. As the body’s largest internal organ, the liver is responsible for detoxification, digestion, and metabolic regulation. When liver function is compromised, it can lead to serious health concerns, including cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. Liver disease can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) and often requires early intervention to prevent progression.

Common Causes of Liver Disease

A variety of factors can contribute to liver damage and dysfunction, including:

Viral Infections – Hepatitis A, B, and C can cause chronic liver inflammation.
Alcohol-Related Liver Disease – Excessive alcohol use can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) – Associated with obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol, NAFLD is a growing cause of liver disease.
Autoimmune Hepatitis – The immune system attacks liver cells, leading to chronic inflammation and damage.
Genetic Disorders – Conditions such as hemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease affect how the liver processes iron and copper.
Toxins and Medications – Long-term medication use or exposure to harmful chemicals can lead to liver toxicity and dysfunction.

Identifying the underlying cause of liver disease is essential for developing an effective treatment plan.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Liver Disease

Liver disease often develops silently in its early stages, but as it progresses, common symptoms may include:

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Abdominal pain or swelling
Chronic fatigue and weakness
Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
Dark-colored urine and pale stools
Easy bruising or excessive bleeding

If you experience any of these warning signs, seeking prompt evaluation can prevent further complications.

How Is Liver Disease Diagnosed?

At AZ Gastro Care, our team uses state-of-the-art diagnostics to detect and evaluate liver disease. Common diagnostic tests include:

Comprehensive medical history review and physical examination
Blood tests to assess liver enzyme levels, viral infections, and liver function
Liver biopsy to examine tissue samples for damage or disease
Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI to assess liver structure and detect abnormalities

Early detection is crucial for preventing liver disease from progressing to severe complications.

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Advanced Treatment Options for Liver Disease

Liver disease management depends on the type and severity of the condition. Treatment strategies may include:

Lifestyle Modifications

Making key lifestyle changes can slow the progression of liver disease and improve overall health, including:

Avoiding alcohol and certain medications that may harm the liver
Maintaining a healthy diet low in processed foods and rich in nutrients
Managing weight and blood sugar levels to prevent fatty liver disease
Engaging in regular physical activity

Medication and Nutritional Therapy

Antiviral medications to control hepatitis B and C and prevent liver damage.
Immunosuppressive drugs to reduce inflammation in autoimmune liver disease.
Nutritional counseling to ensure a balanced diet that supports liver function.

Minimally Invasive Procedures and Surgery

Endoscopic procedures to manage bile duct blockages or complications.
Surgical interventions for conditions such as liver tumors, portal hypertension, and cirrhosis complications.

Liver Transplantation for Advanced Disease

For patients with end-stage liver disease or severe liver cancer, a liver transplant may be necessary. This procedure involves replacing a diseased liver with a healthy donor organ. Post-transplant patients require lifelong immunosuppressive therapy and close monitoring.

Innovative Therapies

For liver cancer, specialized treatments such as Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) may be used to target cancer cells while preserving healthy liver tissue.

Ongoing Monitoring and Preventive Care

Regular follow-up visits are essential for monitoring liver health and adjusting treatment plans. This includes:

Routine blood tests and imaging to track disease progression
Screening for complications such as liver cancer or cirrhosis
Preventive care strategies to maintain liver function and overall well-being

Why Choose AZ Gastro Care for Liver Disease Management?

At AZ Gastro Care, we take a comprehensive and integrated approach to liver disease care, offering:

Cutting-edge diagnostic technology for accurate and early detection.
Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific condition.
A multidisciplinary team of gastroenterologists, dietitians, and hepatology specialists.
Advanced treatment options for all stages of liver disease.

Our commitment is to provide compassionate, expert care that optimizes your liver health and overall quality of life.

Schedule an Appointment for Liver Disease Care

If you are experiencing symptoms of liver disease or have concerns about your liver health, early evaluation is key to preventing long-term damage.

At AZ Gastro Care, we provide comprehensive liver disease diagnosis and treatment at our Mesa, Chandler, and Gilbert locations.

Call today or book an appointment online to take the first step toward better liver health.

Liver Disease FAQs

What is liver disease?

Your liver is a large organ that removes toxins, stores energy, and aids in digestion. Liver disease affects the way your liver functions. Types of liver diseases include:

Fatty liver disease
Cirrhosis
Liver cancer
Inherited liver diseases
Infections associated with hepatitis A, B, or C

If left untreated, liver disease can lead to liver failure, a life-threatening condition that may require a liver transplant.

What are the symptoms of liver disease?

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate you have liver disease include:

Itchy skin
Abdominal pain or swelling
Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes
Nausea or vomiting
Reduced appetite
Edema in your legs and ankles
Dark-colored urine
Pale, tar-colored, or bloody stool
Easy bruising
Chronic fatigue

If you experience symptoms of liver disease, schedule an evaluation with a GI doctor at AZ Gastro Care provider without delay.

What are the risk factors for liver disease?

You have a higher risk of liver disease if you’re overweight, have diabetes, drink a lot of alcohol, or are exposed to chemicals or toxins regularly. Shared needles, tattoos or body piercings, unprotected sexual intercourse, or a blood transfusion before 1992 boosts your risk of contracting hepatitis.

How is liver disease diagnosed?

To diagnose liver disease, your gastroenterologist reviews your symptoms and medical history. They complete a comprehensive physical exam and may use blood tests, a liver biopsy, or imaging procedures like CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds to confirm a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan for you.

What is the treatment for liver disease?

Your liver disease treatment depends on the type and severity of your condition. The AZ Gastro Care team might recommend:

Lifestyle Changes: Making lifestyle changes can help you better manage liver disease. Examples include avoiding alcohol and certain medicines, adopting a nutritious diet, and weight loss if you’re overweight.
Medications: Taking certain medications can prevent complications associated with liver disease. Your gastroenterologist lets you know which medicines, if any, best suit your needs.
Surgical Procedures: In more severe cases of liver disease, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage, remove part of your liver, or replace the liver with a healthy donor organ during liver transplantation.

The best way to prevent liver damage is to lead a healthy lifestyle, maintain a healthy weight, avoid risky behaviors, limit or avoid alcohol, and use medications wisely. Don’t allow liver disease to progress to liver failure. Schedule an appointment with AZ Gastro Care over the phone or use the online booking tool.