Question 1

What is Liver Disorders?

Accepted Answer

Liver disorders are conditions affecting the liver's ability to produce proteins, detoxify substances, and regulate metabolism. They are caused by viral hepatitis infections, excessive alcohol consumption, fatty deposits, autoimmune attacks, or medication toxicity. The Protein, Total and Protein Electrophoresis test is the most important test for diagnosing liver disorders because it measures albumin and globulin levels produced by the liver.

Question 2

What causes liver disorders?

Accepted Answer

Liver disorders are caused by viral hepatitis infections (hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E viruses), chronic alcohol abuse, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease from obesity and diabetes, autoimmune conditions where the body attacks liver cells, and medication toxicity from certain drugs. Other causes include genetic conditions like hemochromatosis (iron overload) and Wilson disease (copper accumulation), bile duct obstruction, and exposure to environmental toxins. The liver can be damaged gradually over years, leading to inflammation, scarring (cirrhosis), and eventual liver failure if the underlying cause is not addressed.

Question 3

What is the best test for liver disorders?

Accepted Answer

The Protein, Total and Protein Electrophoresis test is the most important test for liver disorders because it measures albumin and globulin levels that the liver produces. When liver function declines, albumin production decreases and protein ratios become abnormal, creating patterns characteristic of specific liver diseases. This test separates different protein fractions in your blood, revealing liver dysfunction often before symptoms appear. Additional tests like liver enzyme panels (ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin) and viral hepatitis screenings may be recommended to identify the specific cause of liver damage and monitor disease progression.

Question 4

When should I get tested for liver disorders?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent fatigue, yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain or swelling in the upper right side, unexplained weight loss, nausea, or easy bruising and bleeding. Get tested immediately if you have a history of heavy alcohol use, have been exposed to hepatitis viruses, take medications known to affect the liver, have diabetes or obesity, or have a family history of liver disease. Early detection through blood testing can identify liver problems before permanent damage occurs, allowing for timely treatment and lifestyle changes.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of liver disorders?

Accepted Answer

Liver disorder symptoms include chronic fatigue and weakness, jaundice (yellowing of skin and whites of eyes), dark amber-colored urine, pale or clay-colored stools, abdominal pain and swelling especially in the upper right side, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, easy bruising and prolonged bleeding, itchy skin, and swelling in legs and ankles. Many people with early liver disease have no symptoms at all, which is why blood testing is crucial for detection. As liver function worsens, you might notice confusion or difficulty thinking clearly, spider-like blood vessels on the skin, and fluid accumulation in the abdomen.

Question 6

Who is at risk for liver disorders?

Accepted Answer

People at highest risk include those who consume excessive alcohol regularly, have diabetes or obesity, have been infected with hepatitis B or C viruses, have a family history of liver disease, take certain medications long-term (like acetaminophen, statins, or methotrexate), have autoimmune conditions, or have been exposed to toxins and chemicals. Your risk increases if you share needles, have unprotected sex with multiple partners, received blood transfusions before 1992, work in healthcare with exposure to blood, have metabolic syndrome, or are over age 50. Hispanic and Native American populations have higher rates of fatty liver disease.

Question 7

What happens if liver disorders are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated liver disorders progressively worsen, leading to permanent scarring called cirrhosis where healthy tissue is replaced by scar tissue that cannot function. This causes portal hypertension (increased blood pressure in liver vessels), leading to dangerous bleeding from enlarged veins in the esophagus and stomach. You can develop hepatic encephalopathy where toxins accumulate in the brain causing confusion and coma, ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen), kidney failure, increased infection risk, and liver cancer. Eventually, complete liver failure occurs, requiring a liver transplant to survive. Early detection and treatment can prevent or slow these complications significantly.

Question 8

Can liver disorders be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are essential diagnostic tools for liver disorders and can detect problems before symptoms appear. The Protein, Total and Protein Electrophoresis test measures albumin and other proteins the liver produces, revealing dysfunction through abnormal levels and ratios. Liver enzyme tests (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT) detect inflammation and damage, bilirubin tests measure how well the liver processes waste, and prothrombin time tests evaluate clotting factor production. Viral hepatitis antibody and antigen tests identify specific infections. While imaging tests like ultrasound and liver biopsy may be needed for complete diagnosis, blood tests provide crucial initial information and ongoing monitoring of liver health.

Question 9

How is liver disorders treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment depends on the specific cause and may include antiviral medications for hepatitis B and C (which can now cure hepatitis C), complete abstinence from alcohol for alcoholic liver disease, weight loss and diabetes management for fatty liver disease, and immunosuppressive medications for autoimmune hepatitis. Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage complications like diuretics for fluid retention, lactulose for hepatic encephalopathy, and beta-blockers to prevent bleeding. Lifestyle changes including a healthy diet low in sodium and fat, regular exercise, and avoiding liver-toxic medications are essential. Advanced cirrhosis may require liver transplantation as the only cure.

Question 10

How can I prevent liver disorders?

Accepted Answer

Prevent liver disorders by limiting alcohol consumption to moderate levels or avoiding it completely, maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise, getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, practicing safe sex and avoiding sharing needles, being cautious with medications and supplements (never exceed recommended acetaminophen doses), and avoiding exposure to toxic chemicals. Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol that contribute to fatty liver disease. If you have hepatitis C, get treated to prevent progression. Regular blood testing can detect early liver problems when they are most treatable, especially if you have risk factors.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with liver disorders?

Accepted Answer

Support liver health by drinking plenty of water to help flush toxins, eating antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables, consuming coffee which studies show may protect against liver disease, and including omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseed. Milk thistle (silymarin) has shown some benefit in studies for liver protection, though evidence is mixed. Avoid herbal supplements that can damage the liver, and never use natural remedies as a substitute for medical treatment. Reduce processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats. Get regular exercise to reduce liver fat, manage stress through meditation or yoga, and ensure adequate sleep for liver regeneration and repair.

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 Disorders Blood Test

What is Liver Disorders?

What causes liver disorders?

What is the best test for liver disorders?

When should I get tested for liver disorders?

References

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