Question 1

What is Liver Diseases?

Accepted Answer

Liver diseases are conditions that impair the liver's ability to produce proteins, filter toxins, and metabolize nutrients, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and liver cancer. These diseases disrupt the liver's production of albumin and other essential blood proteins, causing detectable changes in protein patterns. The Protein Electrophoresis with Total Protein test is the most important test for diagnosing liver disease because it reveals characteristic alterations in albumin and globulin ratios.

Question 2

What causes liver disease?

Accepted Answer

Liver diseases are caused by viral infections (hepatitis A, B, and C viruses), excessive alcohol consumption, metabolic disorders, autoimmune conditions, and fatty deposits in the liver. Chronic hepatitis C infection is one of the leading causes of cirrhosis and liver failure worldwide. Other causes include non-alcoholic fatty liver disease linked to obesity and diabetes, toxins, medications, and genetic conditions like hemochromatosis or Wilson's disease that affect how the liver processes iron and copper.

Question 3

What is the best test for liver disease?

Accepted Answer

The Protein Electrophoresis with Total Protein and Reflex to IFE test is the most important test for liver disease because it detects characteristic changes in albumin and globulin levels that occur when liver function is compromised. This test separates blood proteins into distinct groups, revealing abnormal patterns that indicate liver dysfunction, including decreased albumin production and altered globulin ratios. Healthcare providers often combine this with comprehensive liver function panels that measure enzymes like ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase, and bilirubin to assess the extent of liver damage and monitor disease progression.

Question 4

When should I get tested for liver disease?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), abdominal pain or swelling, dark urine, pale stools, or unexplained weight loss. Testing is also important if you have risk factors such as heavy alcohol use, a history of hepatitis exposure, obesity, diabetes, or a family history of liver disease. Early detection through blood work allows for timely intervention before irreversible liver damage occurs, making regular screening essential for at-risk individuals.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of liver disease?

Accepted Answer

Liver disease symptoms include chronic fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), abdominal pain and swelling especially in the upper right side, dark-colored urine, and pale or clay-colored stools. You might notice easy bruising or bleeding, itchy skin, nausea, loss of appetite, and unexplained weight loss. In advanced stages, symptoms can include confusion, swollen legs and ankles, and spider-like blood vessels visible on the skin.

Question 6

Who is at risk for liver disease?

Accepted Answer

People at highest risk for liver disease include those who consume excessive alcohol, have been exposed to hepatitis B or C viruses, are obese or have type 2 diabetes, and have a family history of liver conditions. Other risk factors include taking certain medications long-term, exposure to toxins or chemicals, having autoimmune diseases, and metabolic disorders. Individuals who share needles, have unprotected sex with multiple partners, or work in healthcare settings with blood exposure also face increased risk.

Question 7

What happens if liver disease is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated liver disease progresses to cirrhosis, where healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue that cannot perform essential functions. This leads to liver failure, portal hypertension causing dangerous bleeding from enlarged veins, fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites), and hepatic encephalopathy where toxins build up in the brain causing confusion and coma. Advanced liver disease significantly increases the risk of liver cancer and can ultimately be fatal without a liver transplant.

Question 8

Can liver disease be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, liver disease can be diagnosed with blood tests that measure liver enzymes, protein levels, bilirubin, and other markers of liver function. The Protein Electrophoresis test reveals characteristic changes in albumin and globulin patterns that indicate liver dysfunction. Additional blood work including ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase, and hepatitis viral panels helps identify the specific type and severity of liver disease. While imaging studies and sometimes liver biopsy are used for confirmation, blood tests are the first and most essential diagnostic tools.

Question 9

How is liver disease treated?

Accepted Answer

Liver disease treatment depends on the specific condition and may include antiviral medications for hepatitis B and C, complete alcohol abstinence for alcoholic liver disease, and weight loss with dietary changes for fatty liver disease. Medications can manage symptoms and complications such as fluid retention, itching, and portal hypertension. For autoimmune liver diseases, immunosuppressive drugs are used. In advanced cirrhosis or liver failure, liver transplantation may be the only life-saving option. Early treatment can prevent progression and allow some liver regeneration.

Question 10

How can I prevent liver disease?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent liver disease by limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise, and getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles or personal items like razors that might carry blood. Use medications only as prescribed and avoid mixing alcohol with medications. Protect yourself from toxins by using chemicals in well-ventilated areas and wearing protective equipment when necessary. Regular health screenings help detect early liver problems before serious damage occurs.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with liver disease?

Accepted Answer

Natural liver support includes drinking plenty of water to help flush toxins, eating a Mediterranean-style diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats while avoiding processed foods and excess sugar. Milk thistle, turmeric, and green tea contain compounds that may support liver health, though they should not replace medical treatment. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep support overall liver function. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking herbal supplements, as some can interact with medications or worsen certain liver conditions.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Liver Disease Blood Test

What is Liver Diseases?

What causes liver disease?

What is the best test for liver disease?

When should I get tested for liver disease?

References

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Us vs. Them

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say

Ask AI