Eshealthtips.com – The diagnosis of Liver Disease begins with a physical examination and health history. Liver function tests and imaging are done to detect signs of damage. Liver tissue may also be examined under a microscope and sent for further testing. If the liver seems enlarged, it is diagnosed as cirrhosis. Depending on the extent of the disease, the doctor may prescribe medication. A doctor will recommend a course of treatment based on the results of a physical exam and blood tests.
Knowing the Type of Liver Cancer
A biopsy of Andy Donnelly’s liver revealed a rare form of cancer of the liver that develops in the blood vessels. His liver weighed 16 pounds when it was transplanted, compared to a normal, healthy liver that weighs around four pounds. The diagnosis is complicated by cirrhosis, which impairs the flow of blood through the liver. This can lead to bleeding. However, there are treatments available to help a person with Liver Disease.
In the early stages of Liver Disease, the liver becomes swollen and inflamed. This inflammation is a natural reaction of the liver when toxins overload it. A person’s liver is still capable of repair, and many don’t experience symptoms. If inflammation is not treated, it may cause scarring and fibrosis in the liver. This scarring can cause a blockage of blood flow and can lead to the development of cancer.
If the liver becomes severely damaged, the damage may be irreversible. In some cases, liver failure may result in liver cancer, which is fatal. Some people may never even realize that they are suffering from Liver Disease. Fortunately, there are ways to treat and even cure the disease. If left untreated, Liver Disease can progress into one of four stages, ranging from decompensated to compensated. This article will discuss the various treatments available for patients with Liver Disease.
Complications in Blood Vessels
A patient with cirrhosis may experience severe bleeding, a complication known as a variceal hemorrhage. This complication occurs when an enlarged blood vessel bursts and causes bleeding. The bleeding is bright red and can be tarry or black like coffee grounds. If this happens, the patient should seek emergency medical attention. The bleeding may be due to a ruptured artery or vein. If the liver fails to repair the damage, a liver transplant may be necessary.
Liver disease is a general term for a range of conditions that affect the function of the liver. Some types of liver disease are genetic, while others are caused by injury. Many factors can damage the liver, including heavy alcohol intake, obesity, certain viruses, and autoimmune diseases. Often, injury to the liver results in the formation of scar tissue that affects liver function. In some cases, this scarring process is progressive and cannot be reversed.
Despite its important role in the body, the liver cannot regenerate itself. It must be replaced every few days if it is damaged, and it has to work harder to process nutrients and make new ones. If you do have a liver ailment, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Fortunately, the University of Kansas Health System provides the most advanced diagnosis and treatment options for liver disease. If it is necessary, a liver transplant is available at our Kansas City location.
The Best Treatment For Patients With Cirrhosis
When a patient suffers from cirrhosis, the best treatment for the condition depends on the cause of the disease. The goal of treatment is to slow down the formation of scar tissue in the liver, prevent or treat complications. Some patients with this condition may need to undergo hospitalization for liver transplant surgery. Even if there are no symptoms, it is still important to seek treatment as soon as possible. There is no way to completely prevent liver diseases, but healthy lifestyle choices can help to reduce the risk of contracting them.
Patients suffering from cirrhosis must follow strict diet guidelines prescribed by their doctor. They may need to restrict their intake of alcohol and illicit drugs, while their appetite may be affected. A doctor may also prescribe medications to fight infection and manage symptoms. Some medications may help rid the body of excess fluid. Others may help cut down the absorption of harmful waste products. You may also need to undergo a liver transplant if you develop advanced cirrhosis.
The liver has two main blood supply routes, the hepatic artery and the portal vein. Both blood vessels bring oxygenated blood to the liver. Portal vein blood comes from the intestine and spleen. The portal vein drains to the hepatic artery. Ultimately, the blood goes back to the heart and lungs. The liver produces bile which helps the body digest food. If left untreated, it can cause scarring and cirrhosis.
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