Cirrhosis is the 12th leading cause of death due to disease in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Liver Cancer – Did You Know?
In recent news, a Thai reporter died of liver cancer at only 30 years of age. Doctors found a 13cm tumour in his liver caused by the hepatitis B virus. According to the World Health Organization, hepatitis B is the major cause of deaths from cirrhosis and liver cancer. Therefore, the best protection is to go for regular medical check-ups and get vaccinated against hepatitis B.
What is Cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is a liver disease where scar tissue gradually replaces healthy tissue. As a result, the normal flow of blood through the liver becomes blocked. Over time, the liver stops functioning and this leads to liver failure. The damage is irreversible.
Causes of Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis develops for several reasons. Common causes include:
- Alcohol misuse
- Chronic hepatitis B and C
- Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) – liver inflammation cause by build-up of fat in the liver
- Haemochromatosis (inherited disease)
- Obesity
- Damage to the bile ducts
- Long-term use of certain medications
Symptoms of Cirrhosis
Symptoms appear once the liver can no longer break down toxins and purify blood effectively. These include:
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Nose bleeds
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
- Weight loss
- Itchy skin
- Easy bruising
How to Prevent or Slow Down Cirrhosis
Although cirrhosis cannot be reversed, you can take steps to prevent or slow it down. For example:
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B
- Eat a balanced diet (“5 Foods to Nourish Your Liver”)
- Exercise regularly
- Abstain from alcohol
- Avoid eating raw shellfish which has bacteria that can cause severe infections in people with cirrhosis
- Consult a doctor before taking any medicine PRIME
