Cirrhosis of the liver refers to the scarring of liver due to poor liver function and development of various liver diseases caused by conditions such as alcohol abuse, buildup of fats in the liver, and hepatitis.
In most of the cases, liver is able to regenerate the new liver cells when they are damaged. However, if the damage has occurred for a longer period of time and becomes severe, regeneration of the cells would be incomplete. This, in turn, leads to the formation of the scar tissues.
Scarring of liver is a prolonged process. It does not occur in a day or two, but is progressed over the years due to the buildup of scar tissue. Scar tissues replace healthy tissues and prevent the regular functioning of the liver. This may …show more content…
Understanding the functions of liver is important in this regard. Liver, akin to the heart and brain, is an important organ of our body. Firstly, it is known as the body’s metabolic factory as it processes, stores, and disseminates the nutrients from the ingested food to the entire body. Secondly, the blood proteins that aid in blood clot and strengthen immune system are also formed by the liver. Thirdly, the liver secrets bile that helps in the absorption of fats, fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), and also cholesterol. Above all, the liver does not only plays a vital role in absorption but also aids in removing waste products such as medications, toxins, cholesterol and fats.
Hence, any damage to the liver can make a person vulnerable to scores of diseases.
What Are The Treatment Options For Cirrhosis Disease?
Currently, there are no options available for cirrhosis treatment, unless the patient opts for a liver transplant, which remains as the only curative option.
The other treatment options only slow down the progress of scarring and manage the cirrhosis symptoms. Besides, finding the root cause of the problem can help patient to stop cirrhosis from getting worse by treating the underlyingconditions. For patient with hepatitis C infection, anti-viral medication canbe prescribed. Patients are also encouraged to make changes to their lifestyle if they are either overweight or heavy drinkers.
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