Why does cirrhosis occur?
Sep 11, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, liver cirrhosis may be caused by factors such as aging, excessive alcohol consumption, improper use of medications, hepatitis, or schistosomiasis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Maintaining a balanced diet in daily life, including fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and minerals, can help reduce the burden on the liver.
In general, liver cirrhosis may be caused by factors such as aging, excessive alcohol consumption, improper use of medications, hepatitis, and schistosomiasis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Aging
As people age, the rate of liver cell regeneration slows down and the efficiency of repair mechanisms decreases, which may lead to liver cirrhosis. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help slow down liver aging and reduce the risk of cirrhosis.
2. Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Long-term heavy drinking can cause continuous liver damage, leading to hepatocyte necrosis and fibrosis, eventually progressing to cirrhosis. Complete abstinence from alcohol is necessary to prevent further liver damage.
3. Improper Use of Medications
Long-term intake of certain drugs such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or anti-tuberculosis medications may cause liver cell injury and trigger cirrhosis. Medications should be taken only as prescribed, avoiding self-medication or drug abuse that could harm the body.
4. Hepatitis
Hepatitis is commonly caused by viral infections, chronic alcohol use, or immune system abnormalities. The inflammatory response can damage liver cells, resulting in the aforementioned symptoms, possibly accompanied by fatigue, jaundice, and ascites. Treatment may include medications such as compound glycyrrhizin tablets, compound softshell turtle shell tablets, or ursodeoxycholic acid tablets, used according to medical advice.
5. Schistosomiasis
Long-term exposure to contaminated water containing cercariae in endemic areas may lead to schistosomiasis. A large number of parasite eggs deposited in the liver can cause perivenular fibrosis, leading to cirrhosis, often accompanied by symptoms such as fever and abdominal pain. Treatment may include medications such as praziquantel tablets, albendazole tablets, or compound artemether tablets, used as directed by a physician.
Maintaining a balanced diet with fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and minerals, while avoiding overeating, can help reduce the burden on the liver.
