Preparing for an appointment

If your doctor suspects you have acute liver failure, you'll likely be admitted to a hospital for treatment. Most people with acute liver failure are treated in an intensive care unit.

What you can do

If you have been diagnosed with acute liver failure, here are some questions to ask the doctor:

• What caused my acute liver failure?
• Can it be reversed?
• If it can be reversed, will my liver completely heal?
• What are the treatments?
• Will I need a liver transplant?
• Does this hospital have a liver transplant unit?
• Should I transfer to a hospital that performs liver transplants?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor will ask you or your family questions to try to determine the cause of your acute liver failure. Your doctor may ask:

• When did symptoms begin?
• What prescription medications do you take?
• What over-the-counter medications do you take?
• What herbal supplements do you take?
• Do you use illegal drugs?
• Have you had liver problems before?
• Have you been diagnosed with hepatitis or jaundice?
• Do you have a history of depression or suicidal thoughts?
• How much alcohol do you drink?
• Have you recently started taking new medications?
• Do you take acetaminophen? How much?
• Do liver problems run in your family?