What to Ask Your Doctor

The best thing anyone can do for their health is to stay engaged in their healthcare. Be an active member of your care team by regularly visiting your healthcare provider, undergoing routine surveillance when needed, making the most of your appointments by asking questions and learning more about your health.

When possible, provide your doctor a detailed family health history to determine your own risks for liver disease. There are genetic or hereditary liver diseases that can run in families. Sometimes our genes put us at a greater risk for developing lifestyle related liver disease like Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (newly renamed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease or MASLD) and Alcohol Related Liver Disease. Your family members’ medical histories can be a useful piece of the puzzle when working with your doctor to resolve your own health concerns.

Being honest with our healthcare provider about your lifestyle is another important factor in determining risk for liver disease. Because your liver processes everything you eat, drink, breath, or absorb through our skin, it can be impacted by many different factors. It’s important to keep an updated list of the medications you take, even if it’s something you buy without a prescription at a store (diet supplements, vitamins, pain relievers, allergy medications, etc.). Be sure your doctor knows how often you take each type of medication and review medications that may have been prescribed by another healthcare provider. It is best to ask your healthcare provider before you begin taking any medications to be sure you are making the best choice for your health. Many medications can cause damage to the liver. Being open with your healthcare provider about your diet, exercise, and other lifestyle habits is very important! Your doctor can provide you the best care when they are aware of all the factors contributing to your health.

Last updated on January 16th, 2024 at 10:00 am