Cirrhosis is the consequence of a chronic disease produced in the liver, which generates a cessation in the functions of this organ. In liver cirrhosis, excess tissue develops around the liver, which in turn forms nodules that change its structure and synthesis. The inflammation caused by this disease is how the organ responds to the damage that has been generated, either by excessive alcohol intake or by other liver diseases. At FastlyHealwe, explain what the symptoms and prognosis of liver cirrhosis are.
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Causes of liver cirrhosis
There are two leading causes of cirrhosis to occur:
- Infection hepatitis B or C
- The alcoholism
Other less common pathologies that could cause liver cirrhosis are:
- Bile duct disorder.
- Autoimmune hepatitis.
- Consumption of some medications.
- Hereditary diseases.
- Other nonalcoholic liver diseases.
Symptoms of liver cirrhosis
In the first phase of the disease, symptoms may not appear progressively. The patient may begin to have the following signs:
- Fatigue.
- Lack of appetite.
- Loss of weight and muscle mass.
- Nausea and abdominal pain.
- Small blood vessels in the skin.
When the disease has advanced, the symptoms worsen, and the liver begins to noticeably decrease its function, preventing the patient from leading an everyday life:
- Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, also known as ascites.
- Jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes because the liver cannot remove bilirubin from the blood.
- Redness in the palms of the hands.
- Bruising.
- Abnormal bleeding in the gums and nose.
- Bleeding in the digestive system.
- Sexual impotence in men and shrinkage of the testicles.
- Mental confusion and mood swings.
- Pale stools .
Treatment for liver cirrhosis
A hepatologist will be the doctor in charge of diagnosing liver cirrhosis by confirming the symptoms, blood tests, and abdominal ultrasound.
There is no specific medical treatment for liver cirrhosis, as this manifestation is a sign that the organ must be replaced. Medication is used to treat diseases that have caused cirrhosis or to slow its progression; some of these are:
- Vitamin K to prevent excessive bleeding.
- Diuretics to eliminate excess fluid.
- Antibiotics for infections.
Additionally, changes should be made in the diet, such as reducing the intake of salt and proteins such as meat and fish; if necessary, your doctor may prescribe a vitamin and mineral supplement.
Prognosis of liver cirrhosis
The prognosis will depend on the evolution of each patient and the phase in which the disease is found at the time of diagnosis. Cirrhosis leads the liver to excessive inflammation so that it can regenerate itself is nil. The only alternative will be a liver transplant to be able to resume the normal functioning of this organ.
Prevent liver cirrhosis
Remember that the key so that these diseases do not arise is prevention. Here are some preventive measures to avoid the causes of cirrhosis :
- Cut down on alcohol.
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis B, pneumococcus, or influenza.
- Eat foods low in salt.
- Avoid exchanging syringes.
- Use the condom.
- Increase your intake of vegetables, fruits and cereals.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.