Fibrosis: What Is It and Why Should You Care?
Your liver is a powerhouse organ, responsible for over 500 vital functions, including processing nutrients, filtering toxins, and regulating metabolism. However, chronic liver damage can lead to fibrosis, where healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, impairing its ability to function properly.
Many people are unaware they have fibrosis until it reaches advanced stages, making early detection critical. The Health Suite Leicester can help identify fibrosis before serious complications arise.
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What Causes Liver Fibrosis?
Liver fibrosis occurs when the liver undergoes repeated injury or inflammation, leading to excessive scar tissue formation. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Metabolic Dysfunction and Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD / MASLD)
One of the biggest contributors to fibrosis is fat buildup in the liver, now classified as Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD).
Risk Factors:
- Obesity
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Insulin resistance
- High cholesterol
As liver fat increases, it triggers inflammation, which over time leads to fibrosis and, in severe cases, cirrhosis (irreversible liver scarring).
2. Diabetes and Liver Fibrosis
People with type 2 diabetes are 2–3 times more likely to develop fibrosis due to insulin resistance, which promotes fat accumulation in the liver. A FibroScan is a vital tool for monitoring liver health in diabetics.
3. Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol damages liver cells, and chronic drinking can accelerate scarring and fibrosis, potentially leading to alcoholic cirrhosis.
4. Chronic Viral Hepatitis (Hepatitis B or C)
Long-term hepatitis B or C infections cause ongoing liver inflammation, which increases the risk of fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
5. Autoimmune and Genetic Liver Conditions
Diseases such as autoimmune hepatitis and genetic conditions like haemochromatosis can also contribute to liver scarring.
Click here to book Private FibroScan Liver Health Assessment in Leicester
Why Early Detection of Liver Fibrosis Matters
Fibrosis often has no symptoms in its early stages. However, as it progresses, serious complications can develop, including:
- Cirrhosis – Permanent liver scarring, leading to liver failure
- Liver Cancer – Increased risk due to chronic liver inflammation
- Severe Metabolic Complications – Worsening insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease
The good news? fibrosis can be slowed and even reversed if detected early.
Click here to book Private FibroScan Liver Health Assessment in Leicester
The Role of FibroScan in Detecting Liver Fibrosis
A FibroScan at The Health Suite is a fast, painless, and highly accurate way to assess fibrosis. Unlike a biopsy, there are no needles or downtime.
- Quick & Non-Invasive – No discomfort, just a simple ultrasound scan.
- Accurate Diagnosis – Measures both fibrosis (scarring) and steatosis (fat content).
- Early Intervention – Allows for lifestyle changes and medical treatment before liver damage becomes severe.
At The Health Suite in Leicester, we are committed to helping you protect your liver health. Whether you are at risk of liver disease or simply want peace of mind, a FibroScan is an essential tool for early detection and prevention.
Click here to book Private FibroScan Liver Health Assessment in Leicester
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