Liver failure occurs when the liver can not effectively participate in the body's detoxification process and all other metabolism functions, and can cause signs and symptoms such as jaundice, swelling, or even brain damage.
Liver failure is the most serious consequence of chronic liver disease, which can lead to death if a transplant is not performed.
What are the signs and symptoms
The most common signs and symptoms of hepatic impairment are:
- Jaundice, in which the skin and mucous membranes are yellowed by the accumulation of bilirubin in the body;
- Low concentration of albumin in the body, causing swelling;
- Excess ammonia in the body, which can cause brain damage;
- Body odor described as "moldy" or "bittersweet";
- Tendency to bleeding from the stomach and intestines;
- Ascites, which consists of fluid accumulation in the abdominal region.
In addition, other symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, nausea, and lack of appetite can arise.
Possible causes
Hepatic insufficiency can usually occur due to hepatitis caused by viruses, liver cirrhosis due to eg excessive consumption of alcohol, intoxication by medications or supplements, autoimmune diseases or unknown causes.
Here's the diet to take in case of liver cirrhosis.
Types of liver failure
Hepatic impairment may be acute or chronic:
1. Acute liver failure
Acute liver failure is defined as a severe liver disease that occurs very rapidly due to brain injury within six months after the initial diagnosis. Liver destruction is usually caused by ingestion of drugs, toxins, exposure to chemical agents, certain medications, mushroom poisoning, and hepatitis virus infection. See more about acute liver failure.
2. Chronic liver failure
Chronic liver failure develops more slowly than acute, and may take months or even years to manifest symptoms and usually results from cirrhosis due to alcohol abuse.
What is the diagnosis
The diagnosis of hepatic impairment can be made by analyzing the patient's clinical condition and confirmed by blood test. In addition, a biopsy may be performed in which a liver sample is withdrawn and then analyzed in the laboratory.
How is the treatment done?
Treatment for liver failure will depend on the causes and symptoms. Generally, the doctor prescribes medications and may recommend surgery to remove the portion of damaged liver. In very severe cases, where liver damage is very severe, liver transplantation may be necessary.
Achieving a compatible liver can be time consuming, so some care, such as a diet for salt control, protein and withdrawal of alcohol, can slow the disease down.
