Be kind to the biggest gland

The liver is the second largest and the most complex organ in the body, with the exception of the brain. Highlighting its key role in the healthy body and unparallel service April 19 is observed as ‘World Liver Day’ to spread awareness about it and related diseases.

Everything we eat or drink, including medicine, passes through the liver. “Liver disease doesn't usually cause any obvious signs or symptoms until it is fairly advanced and the liver is damaged. At this stage, possible symptoms are the loss of appetite, weight loss and jaundice.

Yet this “biggest” gland in the body can be protected by some simple preventive measures and responds to corrective steps quickly in early stages of diseases,” says Dr Harikumar Nair, Senior Liver Transplant Physician, Yashoda Hospitals, Secunderabad.

“Eat the healthy and balanced diet filled with foods from all the food groups of grains, protein, dairy products, fruits, vegetables and fats. Exercise regularly to keep your liver healthy. And say NO to Alcohol, Smoking and Drugs. Consult your doctor before starting any medication as medicines taken incorrectly or in the wrong combination, they can damage liver easily,” he says.

“Get vaccinated against hepatitis. It can be caused due to viral infection or when the liver is exposed to harmful substances such as alcohol. Hepatitis may occur with limited or no symptoms but often leads to jaundice, anorexia (poor appetite) and malaise. There are vaccines for hepatitis A and hepatitis B,” adds the doctor.