Q. How often should I get a liver function test?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

The recommended frequency for a liver function test (LFT) depends on your age and risk factors for liver disease.

  • For healthy adults under 40 with no risk factors: LFTs are generally not recommended as part of a routine health check.

  • For healthy adults 40 and over: LFTs may be included in routine health checks every 6-12 months.

  • For people with risk factors: People with certain conditions or who engage in certain activities that increase their risk of liver disease may need more frequent testing. These risk factors include:

    • Heavy alcohol use

    • Obesity

    • Type 2 diabetes

    • Hepatitis

    • Family history of liver disease

    • Taking medications that can damage the liver

If you are concerned about your liver health, talk to your doctor about whether you should get an LFT. They can assess your individual risk factors and recommend an appropriate testing schedule.

Here are some of the signs and symptoms of liver disease that may warrant an LFT:

  • Fatigue

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Loss of appetite

  • Abdominal pain

  • Dark urine

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)

Early detection and treatment of liver disease can improve your chances of a full recovery.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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