Common Causes of Liver Damage
The liver plays a central role in many important bodily functions. It helps to filter toxins from the bloodstream, produces vital proteins, and stores vitamins. It also has a fascinating ability to repair itself after mild to moderate damage. Unfortunately, when people are exposed to certain hazardous substances or fail to take good care of themselves, the liver can suffer irreparable damage.
Sadly, sometimes people ingest dangerous hepatoxic (harmful to the liver) substances without ever realizing the danger they are in. One recent example of this kind of problem is Hydroxycut, a highly popular weight loss product that has been linked to serious liver damage. If you or a loved one has been among the unfortunate victims of Hydroxycut use, call the Hydroxycut lawsuit lawyers of at your convenience.
Dangers to the Liver
Although the liver is a durable organ, it can be harmed in many different ways. A few of the more common causes of liver damage include:
- Alcohol abuse. The liver helps break down alcohol to eliminate it from the bloodstream. When it is exposed to alcohol too frequently, it can begin to interfere with the liver’s other important functions. Over time, alcohol-induced liver damage can develop from mild discomfort to life-threatening liver failure.
- Hepatoxic chemicals. Some chemicals, such as illegal drugs, are widely known to be dangerous to the liver and other organs. Unfortunately, even drugs that are legal and considered safe can be hazardous. Accidental overdoses or interactions of prescription drugs can cause liver problems, as can defective over-the-counter products like Hydroxycut.
- Hepatitis. This is an inflammation of the liver that is usually caused by a hepatitis virus. These viruses can be transmitted through exposure to contaminated bodily fluids, sharing intravenous needles, or consuming contaminated food. Some types can also be passed from a mother to her infant during childbirth.
Living with chronic liver damage can be painful and restrictive. In the most severe cases, patients may even need a liver transplant just to survive.
Contact a Hydroxycut Liver Damage Attorney
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury to the liver after using Hydroxycut, you could be eligible to receive compensation for related expenses. To learn more, contact the Hydroxycut liver damage lawyers of at your convenience.