Cirrhosis

This section explores the causes and risk factors associated with cirrhosis. It explains that cirrhosis can develop as a result of various liver diseases, including chronic viral hepatitis (such as hepatitis B or C), alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), autoimmune hepatitis, and genetic disorders.

The liver specialist in Chennai also addresses other factors that can contribute to cirrhosis, such as prolonged alcohol abuse, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and certain medications. The section emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks and adopting preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing cirrhosis.

Here, the focus is on the symptoms and potential complications of cirrhosis. It explains that in the early stages, cirrhosis may be asymptomatic, but as the disease progresses, symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, swelling of the legs, weight loss, and easy bruising may manifest.

The liver cirrhosis treatment in Chennai also addresses potential complications of cirrhosis, including portal hypertension, ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen), hepatic encephalopathy (brain dysfunction), variceal bleeding, and an increased risk of liver cancer. Early recognition, timely medical intervention, and appropriate management are crucial in managing symptoms of liver damage and preventing complications.

Diagnosis of liver cirrhosis involves several steps to assess liver function, identify the underlying cause, and determine the appropriate treatment plan:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: A detailed history of symptoms, alcohol consumption, and risk factors is crucial. Physical examination may reveal signs such as jaundice or abdominal swelling.
• Blood Tests: Liver function tests (LFTs) measure levels of enzymes and proteins that indicate liver health. Additional tests may detect viral infections (e.g., hepatitis B and C).
• Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI provide detailed images of the liver to assess its size, shape, and detect any abnormalities or signs of cirrhosis.
• Biopsy: A small tissue sample from the liver may be taken and examined under a microscope to confirm cirrhosis and determine its severity.
• FibroScan: A non-invasive test that measures liver stiffness, aiding in the assessment of fibrosis and cirrhosis.

Once diagnosed, treatment aims to manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and address underlying causes such as alcohol abuse or viral hepatitis. Treatment plans may include lifestyle changes, medications, and in severe cases, liver transplant evaluation. Regular monitoring is essential to assess treatment effectiveness and liver function over time.

The liver cirrhosis treatment in Chennai requires a comprehensive approach. This section explores the strategies used to address cirrhosis, including lifestyle modifications, medication, and interventions to manage complications. It discusses the importance of alcohol cessation for individuals with alcohol-related cirrhosis, weight loss and dietary changes for those with fatty liver-related cirrhosis, and medications to manage specific symptoms and complications.

Also, the liver specialist in Chennai addresses interventions such as paracentesis or trans jugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) for managing complications like ascites and variceal bleeding. Regular medical follow-up, vaccination for hepatitis A and B, and monitoring for liver cancer are also crucial components of managing cirrhosis.

Liver transplantation may be considered for individuals with advanced cirrhosis and liver failure. This section discusses the process of liver cirrhosis treatment in Chennai, including the evaluation and selection of suitable candidates, the organ allocation process, and the surgery itself.

It emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving top liver specialist in Chennai, transplant surgeons, and other healthcare professionals. Post-transplant care, including immunosuppressive medications and lifelong monitoring, is also highlighted.