Wednesday 24 March 2021

Things to Know About Cirrhosis of the Liver

Cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease, growing slowly over many years. In this condition, the healthy liver tissue is damaged and replaced by scarr tissue, damaging the liver permanently. With time, the condition becomes severe as it can begin blocking the blood flow through the liver. It also prevents the liver from working normally. Cirrhosis is a liver condition that involves irreversible scarring and loss of liver cells. Every time the liver gets damaged, it can repair itself and create hard scar tissue. However, when extreme scar tissue builds up, the liver stops working properly. One must visit a liver specialist if he or she feels any kind of symptoms. Early detection can help people keep the problem in check. Those who are looking forward to consulting the best liver specialist in Delhi can visit Gangaram Hospital.



Symptoms

Cirrhosis often shows no signs and symptoms until the condition gets extensive. However, when signs and symptoms occur, these may include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Easily bleeding or bruising
  • Itchy skin
  • Pain in the area of the liver
  • Swelling in feet, legs, or ankles
  • Spiderlike blood vessels on the skin
  • Fluid buildup in the abdomen 
  • Jaundice or yellow discolouration in the eyes and skin    

Causes

Cirrhosis always develops due to another liver disease or problem. There are different types of conditions and problems that can damage the liver and cause cirrhosis. Some of the major causes include:

  • Chronic hepatitis (hepatitis B, C, and D)
  • Poorly formed bile ducts (biliary atresia)a
  • A fat build-up in the liver which is a non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Chronic alcohol abuse
  • Genetic digestive disorder 
  • Infection, including syphilis or brucellosis
  • Hereditary disorders of sugar metabolism
  • Certain medication
  • Liver disease caused by the body's immune system 

One can reduce their chances of cirrhosis by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a plant-based healthy diet, avoiding alcohol consumption, and avoiding the risks of hepatitis. Those who are concerned about the risks of liver cirrhosis or feel any discomfort associated with the liver must consult a Liver specialist at Gangaram Hospital in Delhi or any other reputed hospital in another city.