There are many factors that contribute to liver diseases, but some factors make women more susceptible than men. While certain lifestyle habits and genetic factors increase this risk, women are also more likely to suffer from autoimmune diseases. Therefore, autoimmune-related liver inflammation and hepatitis may occur more frequently in women.
Common risk factors for liver diseases in women
There are some other causes and risk factors for fatty liver and other liver conditions in women.
1. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Although women may be at a lower risk of developing NAFLD, they are certainly more susceptible to its severity or to liver fibrosis once it develops. Factors such as morbid obesity, sedentary lifestyle and not prioritizing health contribute to the condition. NAFLD is one of the leading causes of liver disease in both men and women. It is commonly found to be associated with obesity, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.
2. Autoimmune hepatitis
This is a chronic condition in which our body’s immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells, causing inflammation and liver damage. Autoimmune hepatitis is more common in women than in men.
3. Viral hepatitis
Hepatitis viruses, including hepatitis A, B, C, D and E, can cause inflammation and disease in the liver. While viral hepatitis affects all genders, some studies suggest that women may be more susceptible to certain types, such as hepatitis E.
4. Alcoholic liver disease
Excessive alcohol consumption can potentially lead to liver damage, inflammation and cirrhosis. Although alcohol-related liver disease is more common in men, women may be more susceptible to alcohol-related liver damage due to differences in alcohol metabolism and body composition.
5. Drug-induced liver injury
Some drugs and toxins can damage the liver. Women may be more at risk due to hormonal imbalance. Some medications, such as oral contraceptive pills, can significantly affect liver function. Some alternative medicines have also been known to cause acute liver failure.
6. Pregnancy related liver disorders
Some liver conditions are specific to pregnancy, such as intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) and HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count). These conditions can lead to liver dysfunction and require medical attention.
7. Wilson’s disease
This rare genetic disorder affects copper metabolism and can lead to a build-up of copper in the liver and other organs. Wilson’s disease affects both sexes but can manifest differently in women due to hormonal influences.
8. Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)
PBC is also an autoimmune condition that primarily affects the bile ducts in the liver. It is more commonly seen in middle-aged women.
9. Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)
PSC is a chronic liver disease in which the bile ducts become inflamed and scarred. It affects both sexes, but men are more commonly affected.
Also Read: You Can Eliminate Fatty Liver By Making These Simple Changes In Your Life
How to avoid fatty liver problem?
Certain lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a mix of diet, exercise, and adequate sleep, can help prevent fatty liver, but the rapid rise in its incidence is one of the major health concerns.
We have come across many cases where a mild form of fatty liver has resulted in severe liver disease. Choose a healthy lifestyle, eat more fiber, include enough protein in your diet, and manage your stress levels. As far as women’s health is concerned, there is a need to spread more awareness in this regard especially in the rural and semi-urban areas of the society. Women should be encouraged more to live a healthy lifestyle!
Source link: sensationsix.com
Source link: www.healthshots.com
Comments
Post a Comment