Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease that occurs when healthy liver cells are replaced by scar tissue.
The internist is the specialist in comprehensive care, focused on diseases that affect internal organs and systems. It is advisable to see an internist when persistent symptoms occur, such as unexplained fatigue, chronic pain, changes in organ function, or the need to manage multiple health conditions. Additionally, it is advisable to consult an internist for routine checkups, preventive evaluations, and guidance on chronic disease management.
A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in diseases of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, and liver. It is responsible for diagnosing and treating conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux, ulcers, inflammatory bowel diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, hepatitis, pancreatitis and liver diseases. It is advisable to see a gastroenterologist if persistent symptoms such as abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, jaundice or digestive bleeding occur.
A hepatologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases. This specialist addresses conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, liver infections, metabolic disorders of the liver, and liver cancer. Hepatologists use various diagnostic techniques, including blood tests, ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and liver biopsies to evaluate liver health and determine the best course of treatment. It is advisable to see a hepatologist if you have symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, swelling in the abdomen, extreme fatigue, unexplained loss of appetite or weight, or if you have a diagnosed liver disease that requires specialized handling.
Remember that for the proper selection of health professional that treats cirrhosis you must consider the nature, severity and symptoms you are presenting.