Who is a hepatologist?
A hepatologist is a specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases of the liver, bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas. Conditions like fatty liver, hepatitis B and C, cirrhosis, and liver cancers are managed by hepatologists.
In India, doctors undergo a rigorous training pathway to become hepatologists. After completing their MD (Internal Medicine), they pursue a DM (Doctorate of Medicine) in Hepatology, a super-specialty program offered by select premier institutes.
One of the most renowned institutions for hepatology training in India is the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi, where Dr. Vishnu Girish was trained under Prof. Shiv Kumar Sarin. It is an autonomous super-specialty academic center exclusively dedicated to liver and biliary diseases. ILBS has played a pioneering role in advancing liver care, liver transplantation, and academic research, making it a hub for training some of the best hepatologists in India.
When should I consult a liver specialist?
You should consult a hepatologist if you have abnormal liver function tests, ultrasound findings suggestive of fatty liver or cirrhosis, hepatitis B/C, jaundice, ascites, or long-term alcohol use. Early evaluation helps prevent irreversible liver damage.
Can fatty liver be reversed?
Yes. In most cases, fatty liver (now called steatotic liver disease, SLD), especially metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver (MASLD; earlier called NAFLD / NASH – Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis), is reversible with lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, weight loss, and medical supervision. Alcohol consumption is also a leading cause of fatty liver, which can be reversed by stopping it.
What is cirrhosis, and is it curable?
Yes and No. Cirrhosis is advanced liver scarring due to chronic liver damage. It is not generally reversible, but its progression and complications can be managed with appropriate care, medications, and sometimes a liver transplant. Sometimes, correcting the cause of cirrhosis can also reverse the condition (yes, cirrhosis can be reversed).
What tests are done to assess liver health?
Tests may include (THIS IS NOT AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST):
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
- Ultrasound or FibroScan
- Viral markers (e.g., Hep B, C)
- Autoimmune liver disease work-up
- MRI or CT if needed
- In select cases, liver biopsy
Is liver disease always caused by alcohol?
No. Liver disease can result from fatty liver (linked to metabolic syndrome), viral hepatitis, autoimmune causes, genetic disorders, and drug-related liver injury, not just alcohol.
Can liver disease be silent?
Yes, liver disease often has no symptoms until it’s advanced. That’s why regular checkups, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes, obesity, alcohol use, or hepatitis, are essential. Cirrhosis can have normal bilirubin and liver enzymes (AST/ ALT or SGOT/SGPT)
Do you offer video consultations?
Yes, I offer video consultations for patients across India and abroad. You can book an appointment here or contact us directly via WhatsApp or email.
Can stress cause liver problems?
Stress doesn’t directly cause liver disease, but it can affect your metabolism and lifestyle choices, which in turn impact liver health. A holistic approach – including mental well-being- is part of how I guide my patients.
How can I book an appointment?
You can book an appointment through the appointment page, or email us directly at appointments@liverbyvishnu.com. Online and in-person consults are available.
Who needs a liver transplant?
Liver transplant is recommended for patients with end-stage liver disease, acute liver failure, or specific liver cancers. Common causes include cirrhosis (Alcohol associated, hepatitis B/C, NASH, and autoimmune hepatitis), acute liver failure, and acute on chronic liver failure
What is the success rate of liver transplant?
Liver transplants have excellent success rates – over 90% one-year survival in most centers. Long-term outcomes depend on the underlying cause, timing of transplant, and post-transplant care.
How do I get evaluated for a liver transplant?
Evaluation involves:
- Detailed blood tests and imaging
- Cardiopulmonary assessments
- Psychosocial and financial counseling
- Infectious disease screening
Our transplant team guides you through every step, including legal and logistical support.
Can a family member donate their liver?
Yes, living donor liver transplants are possible and increasingly common. The donor undergoes a full evaluation to ensure safety. The liver regenerates within weeks for both the donor and the recipient.
How long is the recovery after transplant?
Most patients spend 1-2 weeks in the hospital and 1–2 months recovering at home. With regular follow-up and medications, many resume normal life within a few months.
What is an upper GI endoscopy?
An upper GI endoscopy (OGD) is a procedure where a flexible camera is used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine. It helps diagnose ulcers, varices, gastritis, and more.
Is endoscopy painful?
Endoscopy is usually done under mild sedation, so it’s not painful. You may feel slight discomfort or bloating afterward, but it usually settles in a few hours.
When do I need an endoscopy?
You may need an endoscopy if you have symptoms like:
- Persistent acidity or reflux
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Screening for varices in liver disease
What is a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a procedure to examine the large intestine using a flexible camera. It helps detect inflammation, polyps, ulcers, and early signs of colon cancer.
How should I prepare for a colonoscopy?
You’ll be given a bowel prep solution the day before. The goal is to clear the colon for accurate viewing. Specific instructions will be shared before your procedure.
How often should I get a colonoscopy?
For average-risk adults, colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years starting at age 45–50. Those with a family history or symptoms may need earlier screening.