maksajapuolta

Maksajapuolta refers to the liver in Finnish. The liver is a vital organ found in vertebrates, including humans, located in the upper right quadrant of the abdominal cavity, beneath the diaphragm and above the stomach, right kidney, and intestines. It is a large, reddish-brown gland weighing about 3 pounds in an adult.

The liver performs a multitude of essential functions, making it one of the most complex and crucial organs in the body. These functions include detoxification of the blood, metabolizing nutrients absorbed from the digestive tract, producing bile, which aids in digestion, synthesizing essential proteins, and storing glycogen, vitamins, and minerals. It plays a significant role in the immune system by producing immune factors and clearing bacteria from the blood.

Diseases affecting the liver, often referred to collectively as maksasairaudet, can have serious health consequences. Common liver conditions include hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), fatty liver disease, and liver cancer. These conditions can arise from various causes such as viral infections, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain genetic disorders. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, moderate alcohol intake, and avoiding exposure to harmful substances, is important for liver health.