Liver Cirrhosis: Causes, symptoms and prevention

When we discuss liver diseases many of us immediately think of alcohol or drug use. In reality there are actually over 100 different types of liver disease which can impact the function of the liver.

The liver is the only organ in the body with regenerative capabilities. The liver has many different roles, like purifying the blood, detoxing the body, aiding in digestion and storing essential nutrients – just to name a few. Although the liver typically isn’t many people’s concern, it should be because it really is a crucial organ.

Everything we ingest, at some point, passes through the liver, so being mindful of what we take in is important for optimal liver care.

A well-known type of liver disease is cirrhosis. Cirrhosis occurs after fibrosis – scarring done to the liver. It is a response to an already damaged liver, so by the time you receive a diagnosis of cirrhosis, most of the damage has already been done. As scar tissue continues to develop with the worsening of the liver, its ability to perform its many functions deteriorates, making you quite sick.

Causes and symptoms of cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a response to scarring on the liver – fibrosis. In an attempt to heal itself the liver produces scar tissue. A build-up of scar tissue leads to a deterioration of liver function.

There are many different causes of cirrhosis and factors which lead to scarring of the liver, including:

• Hemochromatosis – buildup of iron in the body
• Cystic fibrosis
• Wilson’s disease – copper accumulation
• Biliary atresia – poorly formed bile ducts
• Galactosemia or glycogen storage disease
• Alagille syndrome – genetic digestive disorder
• Autoimmune hepatitis
• Chronic alcohol abuse
• Hepatitis B and C
• Fat accumulation
• Destruction of bile ducts
• Hardening and scarring of bile ducts
• Infection by parasite

Some of these causes are inherited, other stand alone, and in some people it is a combination of two or more factors.

Symptoms of cirrhosis include:

• Fatigue
• Easy to bleed
• Bruise easily
• Itchy skin
• Jaundice – yellowing of skin or eyes
• Ascites – fluid accumulation in abdomen
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Swollen legs
• Weight loss
• Confusion, drowsiness or slurred speech
• Spider-like blood vessels visible on skin

Treatment of cirrhosis

If caught early cirrhosis is treatable. Typically, in order to best treat cirrhosis the cause of the disease must be dealt with. This can refer to treating hepatitis, cessation of alcohol or drug use or treating a parasite.

Complications linked with cirrhosis also need to be treated. This can involve releasing excess fluid from the body, managing blood pressure, treating cirrhosis-related infections and taking medications to reduce toxins in the body.

If cirrhosis is severe a liver transplant is required.

Prevention tips (home remedies) for cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is not inevitable, and you can begin to start taking steps to protect your liver and prevent cirrhosis.

Limit or cut out alcohol. Alcohol isn’t just linked with cirrhosis, it can also play an overall role in poor liver function.

Choosing a healthy diet can promote liver function as well. Steer clear of fatty, fried foods and stick with fruits, vegetables and lean meats; red meat takes longer to break down in the liver.

Maintain a healthy weight; some forms of liver disease, including cirrhosis, are linked with fat accumulation.

Reduce your risk of developing hepatitis. Do not share needles, ensure you are vaccinated, and be aware of the risk of hepatitis when traveling to foreign countries.

Avoid infections. Cirrhosis makes it difficult to fight off infections. Avoid people who are sick and wash your hands frequently

Eat a low-sodium diet. High sodium can cause your body to retain fluids, worsening swelling in your abdomen and legs. Use herbs for seasoning your food, rather than salt. Choose prepared foods that are low in sodium.

 

How to lower elevated liver enzymes

Elevated liver enzymes may indicate a problem with the liver. When elevated liver enzymes occur, the liver may become inflamed and release higher than normal chemicals. The release of these enzymes can be seen in a blood test that your doctor can diagnose. Continue reading…

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