Liver failure occurs when a significant portion of the liver is irreparably damaged and can no longer function.
Essential Information About Liver Failure
Liver failure is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt medical attention. Typically, liver failure develops gradually over many years. However, a rarer condition known as acute liver failure can occur rapidly (within approximately 48 hours) and is often difficult to diagnose initially.
What Causes Liver Failure?
The most common causes of chronic liver failure (where the liver gradually deteriorates over months to years) include:
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Long-term alcohol consumption
- Cirrhosis
- Iron overload (a disorder that causes the body to absorb and store more iron than normal)
- Malnutrition
However, the causes of acute liver failure, where the liver deteriorates quickly, are often quite different. They include:
- Excessive use of acetaminophen (Tylenol). This is one of the most common causes of liver failure. Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, can lead to acute liver failure if the recommended dosage is exceeded in a single day or over several consecutive days.
- Infection with hepatitis A, B, and C viruses (especially in children): These viruses can contribute to acute liver failure if not detected and managed.
- Reactions to certain prescriptions or herbal medications
- Consumption of poisonous mushrooms: Eating certain wild mushrooms containing toxins, such as the death cap (Amanita phalloides), can cause acute liver failure. Some industrial chemicals like carbon tetrachloride (used in waxes, industrial paints, etc.) may also contribute to liver damage.
- Side effects of certain medications: Some prescription drugs, such as antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and anticonvulsants, can contribute to liver damage.
- Irresponsible use of dietary supplements: Some dietary supplements have been linked to liver damage. Therefore, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional when using these products.
- Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune hepatitis is a condition in which the immune system attacks liver cells, leading to inflammation and damage. This can result in liver failure.
- Vascular diseases: Budd-Chiari syndrome is a vascular condition that can cause blockages in the hepatic veins, leading to liver failure.
- Metabolic disorders: Metabolic diseases such as Wilson’s disease and acute fatty liver disease during pregnancy can sometimes lead to liver failure.
- Cancer: If cancer cells originate in the liver or spread to the liver, it can lead to liver failure.
- Heat stroke: Excessive physical activity in hot environments can lead to liver failure.
What Are the Symptoms of Liver Failure?
The initial symptoms of liver failure can often be related to various conditions or indicators. As a result, liver failure is often difficult to diagnose in its early stages. Early symptoms may include:
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
However, as liver failure progresses, symptoms will become more severe, necessitating timely care. These symptoms may include:
- Jaundice
- Easy bleeding
- Abdominal swelling
- Neurological disturbances or confusion (known as hepatic encephalopathy)
- Increased drowsiness
- Coma
How Is Liver Failure Treated?
If diagnosed in time, acute liver failure caused by an overdose of acetaminophen can sometimes be treated and its effects reversed. Similarly, if a virus causes liver failure, medical support may be provided in a hospital to manage symptoms until the virus is no longer active. In such cases, the liver may gradually recover on its own.
For chronic liver failure resulting from prolonged deterioration, the primary treatment goal may be to save any remaining functioning parts of the liver. If this is not possible, then a liver transplant may be necessary. Fortunately, liver transplantation is a surgical procedure with a high success rate.
How to Prevent Liver Failure?
The best way to prevent liver failure is to minimize the risks of developing cirrhosis or hepatitis. Here are some tips to help prevent these conditions:
- Vaccination against hepatitis or immunoglobulin to prevent hepatitis A and B.
- Maintain a balanced diet with a variety of food groups.
- Consume alcohol in moderation. Avoid alcohol while taking acetaminophen (Tylenol).
- Practice good hygiene. Since bacteria are often transmitted through hands, wash your hands thoroughly after using the restroom. Additionally, wash your hands before handling food.
- Avoid contact with any blood or blood products.
- Do not share personal hygiene items, including toothbrushes and razors.
- If you have tattoos or piercings, ensure that hygienic conditions and sterilized equipment are used (to avoid carrying harmful bacteria).
- Use protective measures (condoms) during sexual intercourse.
- If using any illegal injectable drugs, do not share needles with others.
- Unexpected causes of acute liver failure
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