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Symptoms of liver disease due to excessive sugar

The liver performs many vital functions in the human body. For instance, it promotes digestion by secreting bile, regulates chemical levels, and stores iron, copper, and fat-soluble vitamins. However, like any other organ, its working can get affected due to specific illnesses. One’s food habits could also affect the liver severely. Here are a few common signs of liver disease due to excessive sugar intake that should not be overlooked.

Fatigue and low energy
Tiredness or constant fatigue could be an early sign of liver disease brought on by excessive sugar consumption. People who enjoy too many sugary treats can develop insulin resistance. It is a condition where the body’s cells stop responding to insulin, the hormone that helps regulate blood glucose. As a result of insulin resistance, blood sugar levels rise constantly, affecting the liver and leading to chronic lethargy and exhaustion.

Digestive issues
The liver supports gastrointestinal function. So, when the organ is affected due to excessive sugar, it can trigger digestive problems like gas, bloating, and even indigestion. Since the organ can no longer break down food effectively, it can even lead to constipation and bowel complications. Moreover, bile secretion problems can worsen the symptoms and increase the risk of other health concerns. So, it is essential to take digestive discomforts seriously and ascertain whether they result from kidney disease caused by high sugar intake.

Inflammation
Inflammation can result from various health conditions and can also be a sign of liver disease due to excessive sugar intake. When a person eats too many sweets regularly, the body’s cells start to swell up with fluid. This leads to inflammation in different organs, including the liver. When inflamed, the liver cannot function properly, increasing the risk of numerous other health complications. Hence, those who suspect inflammation should visit a healthcare professional.

Fatty liver disease
When a person eats sugar, the body breaks it down into glucose, which is used to produce energy. However, when the body receives too much sugar, not all of it is utilized. While some of the glucose is used for energy immediately, the excess is stored in the body in the form of fat cells. These fat cells can sometimes accumulate in the liver, causing fatty liver disease. The condition can lead to a range of discomforts, such as a swollen abdomen, weakness, and drowsiness. If the problem is ignored, it can increase the risk of health complications.

According to a study published in 2021 by Duke Health researchers, fatty liver disease not caused by certain lifestyle factors can only be controlled by regulating blood sugar. And one of the most crucial things to regulate blood glucose is to avoid sugary foods as much as possible. While this might be challenging initially, it is necessary for better liver and overall health. The study suggested that those with fatty liver disease conditions could develop liver scarring and eventually liver failure due to poor blood sugar control. Hence, individuals who struggle to manage their condition should consult a healthcare professional.

Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected jointsâ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause poppingÂ sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase oneâs risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

Impact of excessive sugar on the ear and signs of hearing loss

Diabetes occurs when sugar accumulates in the bloodstream and doesn't produce sufficient insulin. It affects around 30 million people in the country and can lead to short- and long-term complications. It's important to learn how to manage diabetes to prevent nerve damage in various body parts, such as the hands, feet, eyes, kidneys, and ears. This article will examine how high blood sugar levels can affect the ears and the signs of hearing loss resulting from it. Impact of high blood sugar levels on the ear Elevated blood sugar can cause damage to the blood vessels and nerves that are responsible for hearing. This can reduce oxygen supply to the inner ear, ultimately leading to hearing loss. High blood glucose levels also impact the balance of potassium and sodium levels in the fluids in the inner ear, which can reduce cell functioning and cause tinnitus (ringing or buzzing noise in the ears that has no external source). When diabetes affects the vestibular system in the inner ear, it may also cause balance problems and increase the risk of dizziness or falls. Diabetes can also make the earwax less acidic, making one prone to more ear canal and outer ear infections. A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that individuals with diabetes are twice as likely to have mild-to-moderate high-frequency hearing loss compared to those without diabetes. People with prediabetes also have a 30% higher risk of developing hearing loss. Some research also suggests that women with diabetes are at a higher risk of hearing loss than others. People with diabetes and high blood pressure have the lowest recovery rates from some forms of hearing loss. Early diagnosis is crucial in preventing severe damage. Signs and symptoms of hearing loss Some of the signs and symptoms that may indicate hearing loss are: Trouble following conversations with more than one person Asking others to repeat themselves Thinking that others are mumbling Problems following conversations in loud places like restaurants and cafes Difficulty hearing children or people with softer voices Turning up the volume on the TV or phone too loud Balance and coordination issues Exposure to loud noises like explosions, long-term exposure to music, aging, family history of hearing loss, virus, fever, ear swabs or foreign objects in the ear, structural problems in the ear, perforated eardrums, and chemotherapy can increase the risk of hearing loss for some people. How does one protect their hearing? While hearing loss may not be reversible, there are several ways to protect one's hearing. Some of these include: Get an annual hearing evaluation. Get a moderate amount of exercise daily, as it helps improve circulation and blood flow. Turn down the volume on personal devices such as the car radio, mobile phone, and television. Use headphones or disposable earplugs when engaging in loud activities, such as concerts or fireworks displays. Keep blood sugar levels as close to the target as possible. If left untreated, hearing loss can increase the likelihood of experiencing depression, social isolation, and loneliness. Additionally, research has shown a connection between untreated hearing loss, cognitive decline, and dementia. Depending on the status of one's auditory nerves in the ear, audiologists may recommend getting hearing aids or cochlear implants to improve hearing.