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Signs & Symptoms of Liver Disease

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  The liver is an essential organ in our body, responsible for numerous vital functions, including detoxification and metabolism. Liver disease can have a significant impact on your health, but the good news is that it often shows warning signs. Understanding the symptoms can lead to early detection and timely treatment. Here are some common signs and symptoms of liver disease : 1. Jaundice Yellowing of the skin and eyes is a hallmark of liver issues. It occurs when the liver can't process bilirubin, a yellow compound, effectively. 2. Fatigue Chronic tiredness and weakness are frequent in liver disease as the liver's ability to store and release glucose is compromised. 3. Abdominal Pain Pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen may signal liver problems. It can range from mild to severe. 4. Dark Urine Urine that is darker than usual can be an indicator of liver trouble. It may be brown or tea-colored. 5. Pale Stools Light-colored or white stools can result from...

A History of Intragastric Balloons Treatment for Obesity

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  The history of intragastric balloon treatment for obesity is a story of innovation and evolving approaches to managing weight. Intragastric balloons are non-surgical devices designed to help individuals lose weight by creating a sensation of fullness and reducing the amount of food they can consume. Here's a brief overview of the development and progression of this treatment method: Early Concepts and Experiments (1980s): The concept of using a balloon to occupy space in the stomach to induce weight loss dates back to the early 1980s. Early experiments involved surgically placing balloons in the stomach, which was invasive and associated with numerous complications. First Non-Surgical Balloons (1990s): In the 1990s, researchers and medical professionals began to explore non-surgical approaches to intragastric balloon placement. These balloons were typically introduced into the stomach via endoscopy, a less invasive procedure compared to surgery. Emergence of Liquid-Filled Ball...

Difference Between Hepatologist and Gastroenterologist

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  Gastroenterology and hepatology are related medical specialties, but they focus on different aspects of the digestive system. Gastroenterology : Gastroenterologists are physicians who specialize in the entire gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, and rectum. They diagnose and treat a wide range of GI conditions, such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, and Crohn's disease. Gastroenterologists perform procedures like endoscopy and colonoscopy to examine the GI tract. Hepatology : Hepatologists are a subset of gastroenterologists with a specific focus on the liver. They specialize in diagnosing and treating liver diseases, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Hepatologists often manage complex liver conditions and may be involved in liver transplantation. In summary, while both specialties deal with the digestive system, gastroenterologists cover the entire GI tract, while hepatologists specificall...

Intestinal obstruction - Symptoms & causes

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  Intestinal obstruction is a medical condition where there is a partial or complete blockage of the intestines, preventing the normal passage of food, fluids, and gas through the digestive tract. This can be a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Here, we'll discuss the symptoms and causes of intestinal obstruction. Symptoms: Abdominal Pain : One of the hallmark symptoms is severe abdominal pain, often described as crampy or colicky. The pain may come and go, but it tends to worsen over time. Nausea and Vomiting : Patients with intestinal obstruction often experience persistent nausea and vomiting, which may be bilious (containing bile) in nature. Bloating : The abdomen may become visibly distended and feel bloated due to the accumulation of gas and fluids in the blocked intestine. Constipation : A lack of bowel movements or passing only small amounts of stool is common. Inability to Pass Gas : Patients may find it difficult or impossible to pass gas, as well....