The liver is a natural filter in the body that cleanses the blood and the entire body. Many negative factors affecting the body increase the load on the liver, causing a number of diseases.

The ultrasound is one of the most accurate, affordable and totally safe methods for diagnosing liver disorders in modern medicine.

WHEN IS LIVER ULTRASOUND NEEDED?

The liver ultrasound allows determining the size of the liver, detecting inflammation or neoplasms, problems with blood vessels, etc. The doctors recommend to check your liver if you experience the following symptoms:

• enlarged liver;
• pain or heaviness in the right hypochondrium;
• skin or sclera turn yellow;
• bitter taste in mouth;
• swelling;
• pain;
• excessive sweating;
• general weakness and malaise;
• rash or itching.

The liver is both the largest internal organ and a gland in the human body. It performs more than 500 functions, copes simultaneously with a large number of tasks, quickly repairs itself and adapts to various conditions. The role of this organ is extremely important, so the liver ultrasound is an excellent opportunity to monitor your liver health and maintain its function at the proper level. 

Despite the ability of the liver to heal quickly, a large number of Ukrainians are at risk for liver diseases. This is due to unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, stress and bad ecology. The liver is known as a silent organ, which makes things more complicated. The symptoms often go unnoticed. Timely diagnosis makes it possible to detect abnormal changes in the liver at early stages and start appropriate treatment.

When is liver ultrasound needed?

The ultrasound is a detailed diagnostic test that allows evaluating the anatomy of the organ and its abnormalities. The method is especially effective in differentiating cystic and solid masses, which appear as a darkened area on an echogram.

As mentioned earlier, liver diseases can be asymptomatic. However, there are certain clinical signs that may indicate health problems:

• pain in the right hypochondrium, aggravated by physical activity, consumption of alcohol, fried and fatty foods;
• rapid weight loss for no apparent reason;
• discomfort in the abdomen, bloating, heaviness, nausea, vomiting;
• early satiety, bitter taste in the mouth;
• constant weakness, palpable masses in the abdomen. 

People who are at risk should get an annual ultrasound to monitor the liver health. These include those who drink alcohol or undergo permanent medical treatment.

 Preparing for the ultrasound: main rules

The preparation for the procedure is of great importance and is aimed at reducing gas formation in order to obtain the most accurate results. You should adhere to the following recommendations:

• avoid foods that cause gas: sweets, beans, yeast pastries, dairy products, carbonated drinks, etc. 3 days before the procedure;
• eat 3-4 times a day in small portions, the last meal should be no later than 2-3 hours before bedtime; 
• do not eat 8 hours before the procedure. If the procedure is scheduled for the morning, it is performed on an empty stomach, but drinking water is allowed. If the liver ultrasound will be done in the afternoon, then you can eat light and low-fat foods but 6 hours before the procedure.

Berehynia Medical Center offers a professional ultrasound of internal organs using modern equipment in the city of Lviv. Our highly qualified specialists will perform a thorough examination, provide recommendations to maintain health and prescribe treatment if necessary.