Hepatologist Accepting New Patients in East Setauket, NY

At Digestive Disease Care, our comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing liver conditions leverages the expertise of our specialist team and cutting-edge diagnostic tools to ensure optimal patient care. Our hepatologists utilize a range of tests to assess liver function and identify any abnormalities, tailored specifically to each patient’s needs.

A hepatologist may use several tests to diagnose liver conditions and assess liver health. One of the key tests is a liver function test, which measures liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin levels in the blood. Any abnormal results can indicate liver damage or dysfunction and help guide further investigation. Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs are often prescribed to visualize the liver’s structure, identifying issues like enlargement, fatty deposits, or tumors.

For more detailed evaluations, a hepatologist may recommend tests like the FibroScan, a non-invasive procedure that measures liver stiffness and provides insights into conditions like fibrosis or cirrhosis. In some cases, a liver biopsy may be needed to collect a small tissue sample for microscopic analysis to identify inflammation or fibrosis. Additional tests might include serological tests to detect viral hepatitis, genetic testing for hereditary liver conditions, and autoimmune marker tests to diagnose conditions like autoimmune hepatitis. These tests help form a complete picture of liver health and guide the most appropriate treatment options.

At Digestive Disease Care, our diagnostic process is personalized, taking into account the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and initial test results. This comprehensive approach allows our hepatologists to develop a thorough understanding of each patient’s liver health, guiding precise and effective treatment plans to enhance patient outcomes.

At Digestive Disease Care, our team of specialists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for a range of digestive health issues, including liver diseases such as fatty liver disease.

A hepatologist can play a crucial role in managing fatty liver disease by conducting a comprehensive evaluation of your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms to identify the causes and risk factors of the condition. This evaluation may include blood tests, imaging studies such as ultrasounds or MRIs, and in some cases, a liver biopsy to assess the extent of liver involvement and determine the most effective course of action.

Once diagnosed, a hepatologist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. A key focus of managing fatty liver disease is adopting lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet with a focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing saturated fats, refined sugars, and alcohol.

Regular physical activity is also encouraged to help reduce liver fat and improve overall health. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage underlying issues like insulin resistance or high cholesterol. For advanced conditions, specialized care is provided to prevent further liver damage, and options such as clinical trials may be explored.

At Digestive Disease Care, we are committed to helping you achieve better liver health and improve your quality of life through expert care, guidance, and support in making sustainable lifestyle changes.

Preparing for an appointment at Digestive Disease Care, particularly with a hepatologist, involves several key steps to ensure you maximize the benefits of your consultation. Digestive Disease Care specializes in comprehensive digestive health, and being well-prepared can significantly enhance your experience and outcomes.

To prepare for your appointment with a hepatologist, it’s helpful to gather relevant medical records, including any past liver function tests, imaging results, and other medical history. This provides the hepatologist with important information about your liver health and related conditions. Additionally, make a list of all medications you’re currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal remedies. Since the liver plays a key role in processing these substances, this list will help the specialist evaluate potential interactions or impacts on your liver function.

It’s also beneficial to keep a symptom diary leading up to your appointment. Write down any symptoms you’ve experienced, even if they don’t seem related to liver health, noting when they started, how often they occur, and what might make them better or worse. Preparing a list of questions or concerns about your liver health or potential treatments will also be useful. Think about any dietary or lifestyle changes you’ve been advised to make, and be ready to discuss them with your hepatologist.

By thoroughly preparing for your appointment at Digestive Disease Care, you enhance the effectiveness of your consultation with the hepatologist and take proactive steps toward managing your liver and overall digestive health.

When considering whether to consult a specialist at Digestive Disease Care for liver-related issues, being aware of specific symptoms can be crucial. Digestive Disease Care offers comprehensive services for conditions affecting the liver and digestive system, with a focus on timely diagnosis and effective management.

Some common symptoms that may require seeing a hepatologist include jaundice, which is characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes. This can indicate potential liver dysfunction and should be evaluated by a specialist. Persistent abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side where the liver is located, may also signal liver issues. This pain can sometimes be accompanied by swelling or a sensation of fullness, which might suggest liver inflammation or enlargement.

Other signs that may require professional attention include unexplained fatigue and weakness, especially when combined with other symptoms. Changes in urine or stool color, such as dark urine and pale stools, can point to liver problems or bile duct issues. Itching, due to bile salt accumulation, may also signal liver dysfunction. Additionally, persistent nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, or swelling in the legs and ankles could all be signs of liver disease and should be assessed promptly. Cognitive issues, such as confusion or memory problems, may occur with advanced liver disease and require immediate evaluation from a hepatologist.

At Digestive Disease Care, recognizing these symptoms early and consulting with our specialized team can facilitate timely diagnosis and effective treatment, ensuring the best possible outcomes for liver health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and prioritize your liver health. We are conveniently located at 235 N Belle Mead Rd, Setauket- East Setauket, NY 11733. We serve patients from Setauket NY, Miller Place NY, Nesconset NY, Farmingville NY, Stony Brook NY, and Selden NY.