negative, ask your doctor what the next steps will be. Will you need to get tested again or do different tests? Is there anything you need to change about your lifestyle to reduce your risk?
The questions will be different if the results are positive. Since liver disease is usually managed by a specialist, you should ask if you need a referral to a hepatologist.
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At that point, you’ll need to know the extent of your liver damage and what your treatment options are. Sometimes, liver disease can be repaired if the damage is mild. If you have scarring, though, the options will be different. That’s when you need to ask your doctor about what you need to do to live well with chronic liver disease.
Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list and you’ll likely have even more questions if you’re diagnosed with liver disease. What’s important is that you start the conversation and open the door to effective communication with your doctor.
Many Black Americans are at risk of developing liver disease but won’t get assessed in time to get an early diagnosis. A diagnosis is an integral part of starting treatment as soon as possible so the illness doesn’t progress. The best thing you can do is to be an advocate for your health and talk to your doctor.