At Gastroenterology Associates of the Piedmont (GAP), we believe in the power of early detection—especially when it comes to liver health. That’s why we want to help our community better understand liver disease symptoms and FibroScan, a non-invasive way to monitor liver function and catch problems before they progress. If you’ve been feeling off or are at risk for liver issues, don’t wait—call us at 336-448-2427 to schedule a liver health consultation.
Recognizing the Signs of Liver Disease
Liver disease can sneak up on you. In its early stages, the symptoms are often vague, which is why many people ignore them until the damage has already been done.
Some of the early symptoms of liver disease include:
- Ongoing fatigue
- Nausea or a loss of appetite
- Mild pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
As liver damage progresses, more noticeable symptoms can appear, such as:
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen
- Dark urine or pale stools
- Easy bruising or unexplained bleeding
These signs of liver fibrosis may indicate serious liver issues like fatty liver or cirrhosis. But even if you’re not experiencing symptoms, it’s important to stay proactive—especially if you’re in a high-risk group.
What Is a FibroScan?
If you’re unfamiliar with FibroScan, you’re not alone. Many people still assume that a liver biopsy is the only way to assess liver damage. Fortunately, that’s no longer the case.
FibroScan is a non-invasive liver testing method that uses ultrasound-based technology to measure liver stiffness—a key indicator of fibrosis or scarring. It’s completely painless, takes just a few minutes, and doesn’t require sedation or downtime. How FibroScan measures liver stiffness is through vibration-controlled transient elastography, which sends pulses through your liver and translates the response into a score.
By interpreting your normal FibroScan values (or abnormal ones), we can determine how healthy your liver is—and whether more aggressive treatment or monitoring is needed.
When Is a FibroScan Test Needed?
You don’t need to wait until symptoms become severe to get tested. So, when is a FibroScan test needed?
We typically recommend it if you:
- Have elevated liver enzymes on bloodwork
- Are living with fatty liver disease (NAFLD or NASH)
- Have a history of hepatitis B or C
- Struggle with alcohol use
- Have obesity or Type 2 diabetes
- Have a family history of liver disease
FibroScan is also useful in ongoing care plans—especially for those comparing fatty liver vs cirrhosis symptoms or monitoring progression over time. It’s a valuable tool that helps us make informed, personalized treatment decisions.
Why Choose GAP for Help With Liver Disease Symptoms and FibroScan
At GAP, we bring experience, advanced technology, and compassionate care together in one place. Here’s what sets us apart:
- We have on-site FibroScan equipment, meaning no outside referrals or long waits
- Our board-certified gastroenterologists have years of experience diagnosing and managing liver conditions
- Our care team takes time to listen, explain, and tailor a plan that fits your health goals
Most importantly, we’re local and accessible. You don’t have to drive far or feel like just a number in a large hospital system.
Don’t Wait to Get Checked
Liver disease doesn’t always shout—it often whispers. That’s why it’s so important to take subtle symptoms seriously and get the right tests early. Whether you’re worried about recent symptoms or simply want peace of mind, FibroScan is a safe, easy way to assess liver health.
At GAP, we’re proud to offer the latest in liver disease symptoms and FibroScan testing to help you take charge of your health. Call us today at 336-448-2427 to schedule your screening and meet with a specialist who truly cares.
