Liver Health Matters Month: Understanding the Role of FibroScan in Liver Care
Each June, Liver Health Matters Month serves as a reminder of how important it is to take care of this vital organ. The liver plays a role in many functions we often take for granted, including filtering toxins, processing nutrients, and supporting digestion. When liver health is compromised, it can lead to serious conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. At ImageCare Radiology, we’re proud to support this awareness month by offering advanced tools like FibroScan to help assess liver health safely, painlessly, and effectively.
What Is a FibroScan?
FibroScan is a non-invasive, radiation-free imaging test that evaluates the stiffness of the liver. Increased stiffness may be a sign of scarring, also known as fibrosis, which is often caused by conditions such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis B or C, or long-term alcohol use. The test also measures how much fat is stored in the liver, which helps in diagnosing conditions like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Unlike traditional liver biopsies, which involve needles and recovery time, FibroScan uses painless ultrasound technology to generate results in just a few minutes. Patients simply lie back, relax, and feel a slight vibration as the device collects data.
How FibroScan Supports Liver Health
Understanding the level of fibrosis and fat in the liver can guide patients and their care teams in making informed decisions. FibroScan results help physicians determine the stage of liver disease and monitor how it responds to treatment over time. This can lead to more personalized care plans and better long-term outcomes.
For many, early liver damage comes without symptoms. Fatigue, discomfort in the upper right abdomen, or mild weight changes may be easy to overlook. FibroScan can detect liver changes even before symptoms appear, offering an opportunity for earlier intervention and lifestyle adjustments.
Who Should Consider a FibroScan?
FibroScan is recommended for individuals diagnosed with or at risk for liver disease. This includes people with:
- A history of hepatitis B or C
- Fatty liver disease or obesity
- Type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome
- A history of heavy alcohol use
- Abnormal liver enzyme levels
Family members and loved ones can also benefit from understanding how liver disease is monitored. Supporting someone with liver issues often involves learning about tools like FibroScan and encouraging regular checkups.
A Compassionate Approach to Liver Imaging
At ImageCare Radiology, we believe that clear answers and early insights can make a difference. FibroScan offers a comfortable experience and fast results, helping patients feel more in control of their health. Our team is committed to providing advanced imaging in a setting that feels welcoming and respectful.
This Liver Health Matters Month, take a moment to learn more about your liver and how tools like FibroScan are helping people across the country manage their conditions with confidence and care.
For more information about FibroScan or to schedule an appointment, contact your nearest ImageCare Radiology center.