Liver Disease

To claim a Medicare rebate for a gastroenterologist or hepatologist, you need a referral from your GP. Your GP will often arrange blood tests and an ultrasound first, which helps the specialist understand your situation. Many specialists also prefer or require a referral before they will see you, so starting with your GP is usually the simplest path.

Yes, liver disease is a common condition, affecting millions of people worldwide. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is particularly prevalent due to rising rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Chronic hepatitis infections and alcohol-related liver disease are also significant contributors to the global burden of liver disease.

Liver disease is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests (such as liver function tests to check enzyme levels), imaging tests (like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs to examine liver structure), and sometimes a liver biopsy to assess the extent of liver damage. Doctors will also evaluate symptoms and medical history to identify potential causes and risks.

Common symptoms of liver disease include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain and swelling, dark urine, pale or clay-colored stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, itchy skin, and easy bruising. Symptoms may vary depending on the type and stage of liver disease and often become more noticeable as the disease progresses.