Liver Specialist Singapore: What is a Specialist of the Liver Called?

A specialist of the liver is called a hepatologist. A hepatologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the liver. Hepatologists may also be involved in the management of patients with cirrhosis, a condition in which the liver is damaged and no longer functions properly.

If you are experiencing any problems with your liver, it is important to see a hepatologist for evaluation and treatment. Using a liver biopsy that can be done during a colonoscopy (learn about colonoscopy on this page: https://www.andrea-digestive-clinic.com/), your live specialist in Singapore can help you know if you have a liver disease.

Symptoms of liver disease can vary depending on the underlying cause but may include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Hepatologists have expertise in diagnosing and treating all types of liver diseases, including viral hepatitis, alcohol-related liver disease, and fatty liver disease. They may also prescribe medications or recommend surgery to treat liver conditions.

How does A Liver Specialist check your Liver?

You may be referred to a liver specialist in Singapore if your doctor suspects you have a problem with your liver. There are several ways that a liver specialist can check your liver. These include:

• A physical examination: During a physical examination, the hepatologist will check for signs of liver disease, such as an enlarged liver or yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice).
• Blood tests: Blood tests can be used to measure levels of liver enzymes, proteins, and fats. These tests can help the hepatologist diagnose or rule out liver diseases.
• Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can be used to evaluate the structure of the liver and detect abnormalities.
• Biopsy: A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of liver tissue is removed and examined under a microscope. A biopsy can be used to diagnose or rule out liver diseases.

After the hepatologist has evaluated the results of these tests, they will make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan. If you are diagnosed with liver disease, it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions closely to help ensure a successful outcome.

What are some of the Treatments that a Liver Specialist may recommend?

There are many different types of liver diseases, and each requires its own specific treatment. Treatments for liver disease that your liver specialist in Singapore may recommend include:

• Medications: Medications can be used to treat viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and other types of liver conditions. Medications may be recommended to help protect the liver from further damage, reduce symptoms, or improve liver function.
• Surgery: Surgery may be recommended to remove part of the liver (liver resection) or the entire liver (liver transplant). Surgery is typically only considered for patients with severe liver damage who are not candidates for other treatments. If surgery is recommended, your liver specialist in Singapore will work with a surgeon who specializes in liver surgery.
• Lifestyle changes: Some liver diseases, such as fatty liver disease, can be treated or prevented by making lifestyle changes such as losing weight, quitting smoking, and eating a healthy diet. If your hepatologist recommends lifestyle changes, it is important to follow their instructions closely.
• Supportive care: Patients with liver disease often require close monitoring and supportive care. This may include regular blood tests and doctor visits, and hospitalization if the patient’s condition deteriorates. The hepatologist will work with the patient and their family to ensure that they receive the best possible care.

Find a Liver Specialist Near you

One problem most people face is finding a liver specialist. If you have a primary care doctor, they may be able to refer you to a hepatologist. You can also search for liver specialists in your area by simply searching; ‘liver specialist’ and your zip code or city. For example, if you are in Singapore, you can simply type ‘liver specialist Singapore’ in the search engine and a list of liver specialists will be displayed for you to choose from.

It is important to see a hepatologist if you have any concerns about your liver health. A hepatologist can provide you with the best possible care and treatment for your condition. Once you have a list of names, be sure to ask the following questions before choosing a hepatologist:

• Are they board-certified in gastroenterology and hepatology? It is important to see a specialist who is certified in both fields. A good hepatologist will have completed at least three years of training in gastroenterology and hepatology.
• Do they have experience treating patients with your specific condition? You want to see a liver specialist in Singapore who has treated patients with your exact same condition before. This way, you can be sure that they are familiar with the latest treatment options and can provide you with the best possible care.
• Do they have hospital privileges? Not all hepatologists are allowed to admit patients to the hospital. You want to see a hepatologist who has hospital privileges so that you can be hospitalized if necessary.
• What is their availability? You don’t want to see a hepatologist who is only available once a week. You want to see a hepatologist who can see you on a regular basis, especially if you have chronic liver disease.
• Do they take your insurance? Not all hepatologists accept every insurance plan. Be sure to check with your insurance company to see if the hepatologists you are considering are in-network. This will save you a lot of money in the long run.

Choosing the right hepatologist is an important decision. Be sure to take your time and choose a hepatologist with who you are comfortable with and who you feel can provide you with the best possible care.

Final Thoughts

Specialists of the liver help manage and monitor liver function. If you have a liver disease, it is important to see a hepatologist for treatment. Left untreated, liver diseases can lead to severe complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and death.

At Andrea’s Digestive, Colon, Liver and Gallbladder Clinic, our team of hepatologists are board-certified in gastroenterology and hepatology. We have years of experience treating patients with all types of liver diseases. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our hepatologists. Call: +65 6264-2836.

Andrea’s Digestive Clinic: Colon, Liver, Gallbladder, GERD/Acid Reflux Specialist

#21-11/12 Royal Square At Novena, 101 Irrawaddy Road Singapore 329565

+65 6264 2836

Andrea Digestive Clinic – Gastroenterologist in Singapore