Description

Liver cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue, leading to progressive loss of liver function. It is often the result of long-term damage caused by various factors, including chronic alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis (such as hepatitis B and C), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and other conditions. Key Features of Liver Cirrhosis: Scarring (Fibrosis): The liver becomes nodular and hardened due to the accumulation of fibrous tissue. Loss of Function: As healthy liver cells are replaced by scar tissue, the liver's ability to perform essential functions (e.g., detoxification, protein synthesis, bile production) is impaired. Complications: Cirrhosis can lead to serious complications, including: Portal Hypertension: Increased blood pressure in the portal vein, which can cause varices (enlarged veins) in the esophagus or stomach. Ascites: Accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Hepatic Encephalopathy: Brain dysfunction due to the liver's inability to remove toxins. Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bilirubin buildup. Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma): Increased risk of developing liver cancer. Coagulopathy: Impaired blood clotting due to reduced production of clotting factors. Causes of Liver Cirrhosis: Chronic Alcohol Abuse: One of the most common causes. Viral Hepatitis: Hepatitis B and C are leading causes worldwide. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Associated with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Autoimmune Hepatitis: The immune system attacks liver cells. Genetic Disorders: Such as hemochromatosis (iron overload), Wilson's disease (copper overload), and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Biliary Disorders: Such as primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Toxins and Medications: Prolonged exposure to certain drugs or toxins. Symptoms of Liver Cirrhosis: Fatigue and weakness Loss of appetite and weight loss Nausea and vomiting Abdominal pain and swelling (ascites) Jaundice Itchy skin (pruritus) Easy bruising or bleeding Confusion or difficulty thinking (hepatic encephalopathy) Diagnosis: Blood Tests: Liver function tests, clotting studies, and viral hepatitis markers. Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to assess liver structure. Elastography: Measures liver stiffness to assess fibrosis. Liver Biopsy: Gold standard for confirming cirrhosis and assessing the extent of damage. Treatment: Address Underlying Causes: Stop alcohol consumption, treat viral hepatitis, manage NAFLD, etc. Medications: To manage symptoms and complications (e.g., diuretics for ascites, lactulose for hepatic encephalopathy). Lifestyle Changes: Healthy diet, weight loss, and avoiding alcohol. Liver Transplant: For advanced cirrhosis or liver failure. Prevention: Limit alcohol consumption. Get vaccinated against hepatitis B. Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles to prevent hepatitis B and C. Maintain a healthy weight and manage metabolic conditions like diabetes. If you suspect liver cirrhosis or have risk factors, consult Nagpur's Top Gastroenterologist Dr. Snehal Makeshwar at his GASTRO CURE CLINIC, Panchsheel Square, Dhantoli Nagpur for evaluation and management. Early intervention can slow disease progression and improve outcomes.

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