Concerns About Liver Health and Anxiety
At 37 years old, I consider myself slightly overweight yet maintain an active lifestyle and a balanced diet. Earlier this year, in April, I underwent an abdominal ultrasound due to symptoms related to IBS. Fortunately, the results were primarily normal, but they did indicate a case of ‘very mild fatty liver’. The doctor reassured me that it was at a borderline level and hardly visible during the ultrasound. In late July, I had an abdominal MRI, which confirmed that everything looked normal, particularly my liver, which appeared ‘normal in texture, size, and appearance, showing no masses, lesions, or scarring’. The portal vein also showed no abnormalities, and there was no excess fluid present. In October, I had liver function tests (LFTs) done, and those results came back normal as well, including comprehensive blood tests. For years, I've struggled with health anxiety, but I had been managing it successfully until recently. I've begun to notice a slight discomfort in the lower right side of my back, near the bottom of my ribs, particularly when I twist or change positions. Fortunately, this sensation is mild and occurs only during specific movements. After some online searching, I’ve become worried that I might have developed cirrhosis of the liver, especially since I’ve been consuming nearly a bottle of wine most nights. I am aware that this level of drinking is unhealthy, and I am planning to reduce my intake. So, my primary concern is this: given that my MRI in July indicated my liver was normal, should I feel reassured that it has not progressed from very mild fatty liver to cirrhosis in just a few months, despite my drinking habits?
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 6:40:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
You’ve raised some valid concerns about your liver health and its potential implications due to your drinking habits. The key points are that recent tests show your liver is functioning well and appears normal, but you are also aware of the need to reduce alcohol intake.
Explanation:
Your MRI in July was reassuring, showing that your liver was normal in texture, size, and appearance, with no signs of significant damage or cirrhosis. Given that liver changes, especially into conditions like cirrhosis, typically take time to develop, and your recent liver function tests were normal, it’s unlikely that your liver has progressed to cirrhosis in such a short period, even with your current drinking habits.
However, it’s important to recognize that alcohol consumption can affect liver health, and reducing your intake is a positive step. The discomfort you’re feeling in your lower back could be muscle-related or linked to your lifestyle, but it’s important to monitor it.
Next Steps:
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Reduce Alcohol Intake: Aim to significantly cut back on your wine consumption. The CDC recommends no more than two drinks per day for men. Set a goal of reducing to lower-risk levels, and consider alcohol-free days each week.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a record of any discomfort you feel. Note when it occurs, its intensity, and any related activities. This can help clarify if it’s muscle strain or something else.
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Stay Active and Healthy: Continue maintaining your active lifestyle. Incorporate exercises that strengthen your core and back, which may help alleviate discomfort.
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Routine Checkups: Keep up with regular liver function tests and any recommended follow-ups. Discuss your alcohol use openly with your healthcare provider for personalized advice on reducing drinking.
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Manage Anxiety: Since health anxiety can complicate your perception of symptoms, consider mindfulness techniques or counseling to support your mental health regarding health concerns.
Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further clarification on these steps. Taking proactive measures will certainly help in managing both your physical health and anxiety.
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