Chronic Liver Disease - Prevention

Prevention

Some chronic liver diseases cannot be prevented but one can reduce the risk by adopting the following measures:

• Do not drink excessive alcohol. Alcohol is one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease in North America.

• Avoid high risk behaviour. If you do use intravenous drugs, do not share needles or syringes. Never have sex without a condom with a stranger and avoid multiple sex partners. If you plan to have tattoos or have your body pierced, choose a place which has a reputation for cleanliness and safety.

• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. it is highly recommended that one get vaccinated against hepatitis B. This chronic infection is highly contagious and one of the complications is liver cancer.

• Do not use multiple medications or illicit drugs unwisely. Never mix alcohol with medications. Always talk to your physician about your medications and get your liver enzymes checked to make sure that the liver is functioning fine.

• If you have any member of the family of friend who is sick, avoid contact with blood or bodily fluids. Many infections can be transferred through body fluids include HIV, hepatitis and even herpes. Do not make it a habit of sharing personal care products with anyone, even household members.

• If you work in an environment where there are chemicals, wear a mask. Take protective measures when spraying weed killers, insecticides or using other toxic chemicals. If you work with hazardous chemicals, change clothes before you go home. If you work in the garden and use chemicals, wear long sleeve shirts, gloves and a hat.

• Eat healthy exercise and keep your weight down. Obesity is a well known cause of chronic fatty liver disease.