Skip to content 
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are persistent. They can accumulate in the environment and in the human body over time, leading to concerns about their potential health effects, including liver damage. In this article, we’ll explore how PFAS/PFOS can cause liver damage, and how important it is to get in touch with Aquarius Water Conditioning for removing PFAS/PFOS from water in Bemidji MN.
Increased liver enzymes
Exposure to PFAS/PFOS can increase the levels of liver enzymes in the blood, which can indicate liver damage. Studies have found that people who have been exposed to high levels of these chemicals have higher levels of liver enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in their blood. These enzymes are normally found inside liver cells but can leak into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged or inflamed.
Hepatic steatosis
PFAS/PFOS exposure can also cause a type of liver disease known as hepatic steatosis or fatty liver disease. This condition occurs when there is an accumulation of fat in the liver, which can lead to inflammation and scarring. Research indicates that exposure to PFAS/PFOS can cause hepatic steatosis in both animals and humans.
Oxidative stress
These chemicals can also cause oxidative stress in the liver, which can damage liver cells and tissues. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s ability to neutralize them. Researchers believe that exposure to these chemicals can increase the production of ROS in the liver, leading to oxidative stress and liver damage.
Inflammation
PFAS/PFOS exposure can also cause inflammation in the liver, which can lead to liver damage over time. Inflammation occurs when the immune system responds to tissue damage or infection by releasing chemicals that can cause swelling, redness, and pain. Exposure to these chemicals can cause inflammation in the liver, which can lead to liver damage and disease.
Alteration of gene expression
Exposure can alter the expression of genes involved in liver function and metabolism, which can lead to liver damage. Studies have found that exposure to these chemicals can affect the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the liver, leading to liver dysfunction and disease.
In conclusion, exposure to PFAS/PFOS can cause liver damage through a variety of mechanisms, including increased liver enzymes, hepatic steatosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and alteration of gene expression. To protect yourself from these harmful chemicals, it’s important to take steps to reduce your exposure, such as avoiding non-stick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics, filtering your drinking water, and being aware of potential sources of contamination in your local environment. Additionally, advocating for stronger regulations and policies to reduce the use of PFAS/PFOS in consumer products and to clean up contaminated sites can help protect the health of individuals and communities. If you are concerned about your liver health, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider and get regular check-ups to monitor your liver function.
If you would like more information on removing PFAS/PFOS from water in Bemidji, MN, contact Aquarius Water Conditioning online or give us a call at 888-741-9025. We’ll show you how a Kinetico water filtration system can make your water safe and healthy, and provide you a lot of peace of mind.
