Reader questions possibility of liver problems

DEAR DR. GOTT: How do you know if you have liver problems?

DEAR READER: By way of explanation, the liver is an organ about the size of a football that is just under the rib cage on the right side of the abdomen. It is vital for the digestion of food, the absorption of nutrients and it rids the body of toxic substances.

Some problems with the liver can occur because of exposure to viruses and chemicals. Others can be inherited. Some can be temporary and resolve without treatment while others can last indefinitely and lead to rather serious complications.
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