Chronic liver failure, also known as cirrhosis, occurs when the liver suffers long-term, irreversible damage. While treatment cannot reverse the condition, it can help manage symptoms and reduce further damage. Cirrhosis develops when healthy liver tissue is gradually replaced by scar tissue, impairing the liver’s ability to function effectively. This scarring is typically a slow process, occurring over time.
The liver, as the largest internal organ, plays a crucial role in detoxifying the body, producing bile to aid digestion, generating new proteins, and storing sugar for energy. Given its vital functions, maintaining liver health is essential.
Symptoms of Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis often remains undetected until significant liver damage has occurred. Some common signs and symptoms that may appear include:
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Itchy skin
- Redness on the hands
- Irregular menstrual periods (unrelated to menopause)
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Slurred speech
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swelling in the legs, feet, or ankles (edema)
- Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen
- Loss of sex drive in men
Causes of Chronic Liver Failure
Several factors and conditions can lead to chronic liver failure. These include:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Obesity
- Wilson’s disease (copper buildup in the liver)
- Bile duct disorders
- Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
- Genetic disorders affecting sugar metabolism
- Alagille syndrome (a genetic digestive disorder)
- Autoimmune diseases
- Infections like syphilis
- Certain medications
Diagnosis of Chronic Liver Failure
Chronic liver failure often presents with few or no early symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose without specific tests. To identify the cause and extent of the liver damage, doctors may recommend:
- Imaging tests
- Blood tests
- Liver biopsy
After diagnosis, a personalized treatment plan is developed to manage the condition.
Treatment Options
The treatment for chronic liver failure depends on the cause and severity of the liver damage. While progress may be gradual, managing the condition can prevent complications. Treatment options may include:
- Abstaining from alcohol
- Weight loss
- Medications to control liver cell damage
- Nutritional supplements
- Liver transplant surgery
At Yupiter Hospital, our team of specialists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with chronic liver conditions, helping them manage their health and improve their quality of life
