FIB-4 Blood Test Result is 3.1

[NickWal]

Hi. I recently had a FIB-4 blood test. The doctor called me and said he was referring me to the hospital and I’m waiting for an appointment. My own research has revealed that a reading of 3.1 on a FIB-4 blood test indicates advanced liver fibrosis. I’ve had a dull pain that comes and goes on the right side of my abdomen beneath the rib cage. Right now, I can feel some sort of sensation there, no pain, just feels “funny”.

I’m 59, non smoker (never smoked), type 2 diabetes but well controlled, 13.5 stone (a bit overweight). Moderate drinker, usually at weekends, but have now stopped.

I’m panicking past myself and have no idea how this is going to play itself out and what the prognosis is likely to be, and what steps I can take myself.

It seems there may be a long waiting list to be seen at the hospital.

Can somebody please advise?

Thanks

[Sunnyskies33]

Hi and welcome! Keep up with the not drinking and start eating a Mediterranean diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, olive oil, coffee, whole grains, legumes, fish. Avoid added sugar, saturated fats and refined flours (white bread and pasta, crackers etc). Try to lose any extra pounds but slow and steady is best for liver. If you are able get some exercise each day like a brisk walk for 30 minutes. You will likely have some imaging done like ultrasound and fibroscan to see if you have a fatty liver and/or scarring. Don't panic but start with the healthy living today. Many levels of liver injury can be reversed over time with healthy living. Both British Liver Trust and the Fatty Liver Foundation have a lot of helpful info on this. Take care!

[NickWal in reply to Sunnyskies33]

Thank you. I have been previously told I have NAFLD. I’m trying to get a fibroscan done privately but just can find any in the North West. Even the private hospital I’ve been to before (not liver related) doesn’t have one, just the local NHS hospital that I’m waiting an appointment for.

[Sunnyskies33 in reply to NickWal]

Maybe the nurses at British Liver Trust can suggest places for a fibroscan or assist with suggestions.

[NickWal]

Thanks again. I’ll get in touch 👍🏻