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Common Conditions that can Lead to Liver Failures in Adults
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Home >> Blogs >> Common Conditions that can Lead to Liver Failures in Adults

Common Conditions that can Lead to Liver Failures in Adults


One of the most crucial organs in the body, the liver, performs many essential tasks such as protein synthesis, detoxification, and metabolism. Liver failure is one of the serious complications that can result from chronic liver disease due to variety of aetiologies. Through this blog post, we will talk about a few common disorders that can cause liver failure in adults meticulously observed by top liver transplant specialist in india.

Long-term alcoholism

One of the most frequent causes of adult liver failure is chronic alcohol consumption. When alcohol enters the system, it transforms into harmless by-products that the liver can eliminate from the body. However, chronically consuming too much alcohol can harm the liver cells, resulting in inflammation, scarring, and ultimately liver failure.

Alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis are the three phases that commonly characterise the progression of alcohol-related liver disease. The first stage of alcohol-related fatty liver disease is characterised by a build-up of fat in the cells of the liver. The second stage of alcoholic hepatitis is characterised by liver inflammation. The worst stage of cirrhosis is characterised by severe liver tissue scarring, which can cause liver failure.

(NAFLD) Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is not brought on by alcohol usage, is characterised by an abnormal buildup of fat in the liver. Obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure are all intimately related to this illness. NAFLD can develop into non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a more severe type of the condition that can cause liver failure over time.
NAFLD is more prevalent in those who are obese or overweight, have type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or have high blood fat levels. Maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, and following a diet low in refined carbs, sugar, and saturated fats are all crucial for preventing NAFLD.

B and C hepatitis

Viral infections such as hepatitis B and C can inflame the liver, which can potentially cause liver damage and liver failure. These viruses are spread through blood, sharing needles, unprotected sex, and during childbirth when a mother gives birth to her child. Liver failure can be avoided with early hepatitis B and C diagnosis and treatment.

Auto-immune Hepatitis

In this condition known as autoimmune hepatitis, the liver is unintentionally attacked by the immune system, causing inflammation and damage. Although the precise cause of this condition is unknown, genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role. If neglected, autoimmune hepatitis can cause cirrhosis and liver failure.
The signs of autoimmune hepatitis, such as weariness, pain in the abdomen, and jaundice, often resemble those of other liver conditions. For autoimmune hepatitis diagnosis, Blood tests will be run by a physician to check for antibodies and indicators of liver inflammation. Corticosteroid drugs are frequently used as treatment to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Wilson's illness

In the liver, brain, and other organs, there is a build-up of copper in Wilson's disease, a rare genetic illness. The signs of this disorder can include neurological and behavioural issues as well as liver failure. Wilson's disease can be prevented from causing liver failure and damage by early detection and treatment.
Wilson's disease symptoms might vary, but they frequently involve neurological symptoms like tremors and speech difficulties as well as liver-related symptoms like jaundice and liver failure.

Drug induced liver damage

Certain medications or dietary supplements can damage the liver and eventually result in liver failure in a condition known as drug-induced liver injury. People who take multiple medications or already have liver disease are more likely to develop this condition, which can strike at any age.
 
Depending on the drug or dietary supplement involved, the signs of drug-induced liver impairment can vary, but it  may include jaundice, lethargy, and abdominal pain. It's crucial to carefully follow pharmaceutical instructions, abstain from taking over-the-counter medications, and get medical help if any signs of liver damage appear in order to prevent drug-induced liver impairment.

In conclusion, a wide range of disorders, including persistent alcohol use, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatitis B and C, autoimmune hepatitis, Wilson's disease, and drug-induced liver injury, can cause liver failure in adults. With lifestyle modifications, early discovery, and the right medical care, many of these illnesses can be avoided or treated. If you experience any liver related symptoms, you should consult a Liver specialist in Gurgaon right away because treatment that is started at the earliest can improve outcomes and prevent liver failure.

Dr. Ankur Garg, Director

Digestive & Liver Diseases, Liver Transplant

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