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The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous essential functions, including detoxification, digestion, and metabolism. When liver cells begin to fail, the consequences can be life-threatening. Recognising the early signs of liver failure is crucial for timely intervention and treatment. In this blog, we have discussed in detail the 10 warning signs that one should not ignore and immediately consult the best in Gurgaon for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Synopsis
10 Signs of Liver Cell Failure
1. Persistent Fatigue and Weakness
One of the earliest and most common symptoms of liver dysfunction is a constant feeling of tiredness and weakness. This occurs because a failing liver cannot effectively remove toxins from the blood, leading to decreased energy levels.
2. Jaundice (Yellowing of Skin and Eyes)
Jaundice is characterised by a yellow tint to the skin and the whites of the eyes. It results from the accumulation of bilirubin, a yellow pigment formed by the breakdown of red blood cells, which the liver normally processes and excretes.
3. Abdominal Swelling and Pain
Swelling in the abdomen, known as ascites, can occur due to fluid accumulation resulting from liver failure. Additionally, pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen may be experienced as the liver becomes inflamed or enlarged.
4. Dark Urine and Pale Stools
Changes in urine and stool colour can indicate liver issues. Dark urine may suggest excess bilirubin in the bloodstream, while pale or clay-colored stools can result from a lack of bile reaching the intestines.
5. Nausea and Vomiting
A failing liver can lead to digestive disturbances, causing symptoms like nausea and vomiting. These symptoms may be persistent and are often accompanied by a loss of appetite.
6. Easy Bruising and Bleeding
The liver produces proteins essential for blood clotting. When liver function declines, the production of these proteins decreases, leading to an increased tendency to bruise or bleed easily.
7. Swelling in Legs and Ankles
Oedema, or swelling in the lower extremities, can result from liver failure due to the organ's inability to produce adequate amounts of albumin, a protein that prevents fluid from leaking out of blood vessels.
8. Itchy Skin
Pruritus, or itchy skin, can occur when bile salts accumulate in the skin due to impaired bile flow from the liver. This symptom can be particularly bothersome and is often a sign of cholestasis, a condition where bile flow is reduced or blocked.
9. Confusion and Cognitive Impairment
Hepatic encephalopathy is a decline in brain function that occurs when the liver cannot adequately remove toxins from the blood. Symptoms include confusion, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating.
10. Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
As liver function deteriorates, individuals may experience a significant decrease in appetite, leading to unintended weight loss and muscle wasting. This can further weaken the body and exacerbate other symptoms.
Liver cell failure is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these warning signs, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional promptly. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent further complications.
Diagnosis of Liver Cell Failure
Diagnosing liver cell failure involves a comprehensive evaluation combining clinical assessment, laboratory tests, imaging studies, and sometimes tissue sampling. Here's an overview of the diagnostic process:
Clinical Assessment
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Medical History: A healthcare provider will inquire about symptoms (e.g., fatigue, jaundice), lifestyle factors (such as alcohol consumption), medication use, and any history of liver disease.
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Physical Examination: The examination may reveal signs like yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), abdominal swelling (ascites), or an enlarged liver.
Laboratory Tests
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Liver Function Tests (LFTs): These blood tests measure levels of liver enzymes (ALT, AST), bilirubin, albumin, and clotting factors to assess liver health.
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Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates overall health and can detect anaemia or infections.
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Coagulation Profile: Tests like prothrombin time (PT) and INR assess the liver's ability to produce clotting factors.
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Serologic Tests: Identify viral infections (e.g., hepatitis A, B, C) or autoimmune liver diseases.
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Toxicology Screens: Detect the presence of drugs or toxins that may cause liver injury.
Imaging Studies
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Ultrasound: A non-invasive test that visualises liver size, texture, and detects abnormalities like tumours or fatty infiltration.
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CT Scan or MRI: Provide detailed images to identify structural changes, lesions, or vascular abnormalities in the liver.
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Elastography (e.g., FibroScan): Measures liver stiffness to assess fibrosis or scarring.
Liver Biopsy
In certain cases, a liver biopsy may be performed to obtain a tissue sample for microscopic examination. This helps in:
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Confirming Diagnosis: Determining the extent of liver damage or specific liver diseases.
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Guiding Treatment: Identifying the underlying cause to tailor appropriate therapy.
Treatment of Liver Cell Failure
Treatment for liver cell failure (acute liver failure) involves a combination of supportive care, addressing the underlying cause, and, in severe cases, liver transplantation. Here's an overview of the treatment approaches:
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Intensive Care Monitoring: Patients are often admitted to an intensive care unit to monitor vital signs and organ functions closely.
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Managing Cerebral Oedema: Medications may be administered to reduce brain swelling, a potential complication of liver failure.
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Preventing Infections: Regular screening for infections is essential, and antibiotics may be prescribed if an infection is detected.
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Nutritional Support: If the patient cannot eat, nutritional supplements are provided to prevent deficiencies.
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Medication: For liver failure caused by viral hepatitis, antiviral medications can help control the infection.
Consult our expert Gastroenterologist at Manipal Hospital Gurugram for personalised treatment and care.
Conclusion
In conclusion, liver cell failure is a critical condition that necessitates prompt recognition and intervention. Early symptoms such as jaundice, confusion, and abdominal discomfort should not be overlooked, as timely medical attention can significantly influence outcomes. While certain causes of acute liver failure are reversible with appropriate treatment, others may progress rapidly, making liver transplantation the only viable option. Advancements in medical research, including the development of bioartificial liver devices and innovative therapies, offer hope for improved management and recovery. Nevertheless, prevention remains paramount. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and ensuring safe medication practices can reduce the risk of liver damage. Regular health check-ups and being vigilant about liver health are essential steps in safeguarding this vital organ.
FAQ's
In Gurugram, common causes include:
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Viral hepatitis infections (A, B, and E)
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Drug-induced liver injury, notably from acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose
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Consumption of toxic substances, such as certain wild mushrooms
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Autoimmune liver diseases
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Metabolic disorders like Wilson's disease
Early symptoms include:
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Nausea and vomiting
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Loss of appetite
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Fatigue
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Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
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Abdominal pain
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Confusion or disorientation (hepatic encephalopathy)
Diagnosis involves:
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Blood tests to assess liver function (LFTs)
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Imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans
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Coagulation profiles to check blood clotting
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In some cases, a liver biopsy may be performed
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity:
Medications to manage symptoms and complications
Supportive care in intensive care units
Liver transplantation in severe cases
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