Significant Effects Of Sleep Apnea

Abnormal Liver Function Tests

Recent studies have suggested patients with sleep apnea are at an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and some research suggests sleep apnea may even cause this potentially serious liver condition. Patients with sleep apnea will often have abnormal liver function tests. A liver function test is a specialized blood test that can detect how well the patient's liver is functioning. The tests can help doctors monitor the progression of liver disease and plan the most effective treatment methods. Patients with sleep apnea who are diagnosed with liver damage or fatty liver disease may need to be referred to a specialist for imaging studies. Weight loss is typically the first recommended treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and doctors advise that patients aim to lose at least ten percent of their body weight. Periodic liver function tests will be performed to monitor the patient's progress, and patients may also need to have additional scans.

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