Liver Cirrhosis
The liver cirrhosis is a very advanced stage of a long-existing liver disease. The normal architecture of the liver is destroyed, and the original liver tissue by fibrous tissue replaces. This replacement tissue cannot take over the tasks of the healthy liver. The function of the liver is severely limited. The changes are already visible to the naked eye: the liver hardens, and the surface is covered with knots, scars, and humps.
What causes Liver Cirrhosis?
- Long-Term alcohol abuse
- Chronic liver inflammation (hepatitis) type B and type C.
- Primary biliary cirrhosis
- Autoimmune hepatitis
Through other diseases, such as
- Diseases of iron, copper and lipid metabolism
- disturbed bile flow
- Diseases of the cardiovascular system etc.
- Due to certain chemical substances found in, among others, narcotics and cleaning products (trichloroethylene)
How to avoid Cirrhosis?
- Do not drink any or only small amounts of alcohol.
- Seek help if you are an alcoholic.
- Avoid liver inflammation by vaccination.
- Have a specialist treat chronic liver inflammation (hepatitis).
How does the doctor Diagnose?
For the most part, elevated liver values in a blood test indicate liver damage. By further blood tests then often the cause of liver disease can be determined more accurately.
Ultrasound examinations can be used to determine the size of the liver, the nature of the liver surface and the structure of the hepatic.
Possible consequences and complications of cirrhosis
Formation of varicose veins in the esophagus or stomach, with the potential occurrence of life-threatening bleeding
- Ascites, as well as infections of the ascites
- liver cancer
- impotence
- Liver coma and death
What treatment options are there?
Treatment of cirrhosis of the liver is hardly possible, but the underlying cause can often be treated. This is especially important to slow or stop the progression of the disease. If alcohol is the cause of liver cirrhosis, sufferers should immediately stop drinking alcohol. Antiviral therapy can often efficiently prevent the progression of viral hepatitis.
Liver transplantation
Liver transplantation is often the last resort and at the same time the final solution to all complications of cirrhosis.
Activities of daily life
Follow your usual activities as far as possible. Have a regular check for the presence of varicose veins in the esophagus.
