The liver, a pivotal organ in the digestive tract, plays a crucial role in detoxification. Liver Cirrhosis emerges as a consequence of extensive damage to this vital organ. Dr. Prasad Neelam emphasizes the profound impact of toxins on the liver, making it susceptible to various forms of attacks.

Causes of Liver Cirrhosis:

Dr. Prasad Neelam delves into the multifaceted origins of Liver Cirrhosis, recognizing excessive alcohol intake as a common precursor. Additionally, he underscores the role of hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses, notorious for inducing long-term liver damage and eventual failure. Another escalating concern, particularly in the last three decades, is Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) or fatty liver, prominently observed in diabetics. The undetected progression of fatty liver can evolve into Liver Cirrhosis.

Beyond these primary causes, Dr. Prasad Neelam highlights the involvement of various conditions, such as birth defects, defective enzymes, and developmental issues in the liver, as potential contributors to liver failure.

Symptoms of Liver Cirrhosis:

The insidious nature of Liver Cirrhosis becomes apparent as symptoms manifest only when a significant portion of the liver is compromised. Dr. Prasad Neelam outlines the key symptoms, including jaundice, abdominal distension due to fluid accumulation, swelling of the feet, muscle wasting, hair fall, color changes, and severe itching. These signs typically become noticeable when the liver failure has already progressed considerably.

Diagnosis of Liver Cirrhosis:

The diagnostic journey involves fundamental tests such as ultrasound scans and Liver Function Tests to provide initial insights into the presence of Liver Cirrhosis. Dr. Prasad Neelam emphasizes the importance of further investigations, such as CT scans, endoscopy, and additional tests, to categorize the stage of liver failure accurately.

Treatment Options for Liver Cirrhosis:

For patients in the early stages of Liver Cirrhosis, Dr. Prasad Neelam recommends a management approach involving medications. These medications aim to alleviate fluid accumulation in the body and reduce blood pressure reaching the liver, thereby mitigating complications. However, as Liver Cirrhosis advances to the third stage or C stage, liver transplantation becomes the primary treatment option. Dr. Prasad Neelam elucidates that this involves the removal of the damaged liver and the transplantation of a healthy liver from a brain-dead donor or a relative.