Important signs of liver disease, symptoms and treatment. Liver diseases: symptoms and treatment Liver disease symptoms treatment

The liver is one of the most important organs of the human body. All blood goes through the filtration process, it participates in metabolic processes, the synthesis of hormones, enzymes and bile. Therefore, any liver disease negatively affects other organs and systems.

There are a large number of different liver pathologies, but many of them occur latently, without specific symptoms, and it is not always possible to suspect the presence of the disease until it reaches a severe stage. Therefore, it is extremely important to respond to even the most minor disturbances in the body.

Disturbances in the functioning of the liver and its structure affect all organs and systems of the human body. But even experienced doctors do not always find a connection between liver disease and intestinal disorders, mood changes or skin problems. And only after a complete examination is the original source of the disease revealed.

Viral hepatitis is considered the most common liver disease. Their symptoms very often resemble ARVI or influenza: fever, headache, feeling of nausea, and sometimes vomiting.

As the process progresses, pain occurs in the right hypochondrium, the skin and sclera of the eyes turn yellow, and itchy skin begins to torment. Liver cirrhosis often develops against the background of hepatitis, but it can also be an independent disease. The symptoms of hepatitis and cirrhosis are very similar, but with cirrhosis they become more pronounced and more disturbing to the patient.

A common disease is fatty liver disease - fatty hepatosis. The acute form of the disease begins with symptoms of poisoning: nausea, vomiting, heartburn, abdominal pain, weakness. In almost all cases, mild or severe jaundice is observed. Subsequently, ulcers form in the stomach and esophagus, causing vomiting with blood. Various skin rashes, blurred vision, bloating, and loss of coordination may occur.

Benign and malignant tumors in the liver usually develop without any special manifestations. Symptoms appear with extensive lesions, when the neoplasm greatly increases in size. You can suspect the presence of the disease by increased fatigue, irritability, and drowsiness, but few people pay attention to these symptoms.

Against the background of some diseases, purulent inflammation develops in the liver cavity - an abscess. Its symptoms resemble hepatitis or cirrhosis:

1. Feverish condition.
2. Jaundice.
3. Pain under the right rib.
4. Loss of appetite.
5. Sharp weight loss.
6. Signs of intoxication.

In general, we can say that almost all liver diseases have similar symptoms, especially at the initial stage. Symptoms of liver diseases are divided into two groups - hepatic and extrahepatic (Table 1).

Table 1 - Manifestations of liver dysfunction

Very often, extrahepatic manifestations are considered independent diseases and remain without proper treatment. Therefore, it is very important to examine not only the diseased organ or system, but also the entire body as a whole in order to make the correct diagnosis.

Features of manifestation in men and women

There are some features of the development of liver diseases in men and women (Table 2).

It has been proven that the female body is more susceptible to liver diseases due to the use of oral contraceptives, hormonal changes, and displacement of internal organs during pregnancy.

But liver diseases are still more common in men due to a tendency to bad habits, poor diet and promiscuity, which provoke hepatitis infection. Also, most experts believe that the symptoms of diseases in men and women can occur with different symptoms.

General symptoms:

1. Heaviness, discomfort and pain under the right rib.
2. Jaundice.
3. Temperature increase.
4. Skin itching.
5. Dyspeptic disorders.
6. Constant fatigue.
7. Irritability.

Table 2 - Table of comparison of symptoms depending on gender

The table shows that the symptoms in men and women with liver disease are approximately the same, but some signs appear earlier in men, and vice versa. This table shows average statistical data, because symptoms depend not only on the stage of the disease, but also on its cause, as well as the condition of the patient’s body.

Expert opinion:“The symptoms of the same disease, at the same stage with the same test results, are different for each patient. One may not even be aware of his illness, while another will suffer from a variety of symptoms.”

First signs

Very rarely, liver diseases develop with pronounced clinical signs, so most diseases are diagnosed when extensive lesions develop in the liver tissues, complications arise, and the organ fails to cope with the functions assigned to it. Therefore, even minor signs should not be ignored and require examination - this way you can not only prevent severe liver damage, but also avoid death.

Experienced specialists know that the skin reflects the condition of the patient’s body, so an external examination is necessary, especially if there are complaints about the liver. The patient can independently determine that something is wrong with his liver by the following manifestations:

Very often, such signs appear earlier than all others, but many patients do not pay attention to them, and the disease continues to progress and cause other symptoms:

1. Dyspeptic disorders.
2. Irritability, depression, decreased performance, poor sleep, absent-mindedness.
3. Skin itching.
4. Discomfort and pain in the abdominal area.
5. Temperature increase.

Sometimes the symptoms of the disease are so obvious that the patient can notice them on their own:

People with a diseased liver constantly feel tired, want to sleep, and cannot work as usual. People around them notice their mood swings, depression, and irritability. Self-diagnosis does not give 100% results. If 2 or more symptoms are detected, it is necessary to visit a doctor as soon as possible and undergo an examination.

Nikolai writes: “During a medical examination, they accidentally discovered heart problems and took various medications for more than a year. I recently had an ultrasound of the gastrointestinal tract. According to the results, there is an enlarged liver, signs of fatty degeneration, and a violation of the vascular pattern.

The doctor said that this was a consequence of heart disease and long-term use of pills. The most interesting thing is that nothing bothers me, my appetite is normal, there is no pain, my skin is not yellow, although everywhere they write that there should already be symptoms.”

Symptoms of liver slagging

The liver is the largest gland in the human body and performs several hundred different functions. In order for an organ to function stably, toxins and other substances harmful to the body must not accumulate in it. But with a modern lifestyle, it is very difficult to ensure proper and stable functioning of the liver due to severe slagging.

It is very easy to determine that the liver is full of metabolic products - just listen to the body and look in the mirror. Signs of liver slagging:

If you have such symptoms, you need to consult a doctor so that he can prescribe how to properly cleanse the liver of toxins without harming the body. Self-cleansing is not recommended as these signs may indicate serious liver problems.

How to identify complications?

Like any disease, liver pathologies are often accompanied by life-threatening complications. Sometimes patients do not know about their diseases until severe consequences develop, so it is important to know what symptoms accompany complications in order to begin their treatment in a timely manner.

Main complications and their symptoms:

Liver pathologies are dangerous because they often occur without severe symptoms. Therefore, people prone to liver damage and at risk of developing such diseases need to visit a doctor once a year and undergo examinations.

Diagnostic methods

If symptoms of liver disease appear, you need to consult a specialist as soon as possible, since some diseases develop very rapidly. Based on complaints and examination of the patient, the patient is prescribed to undergo laboratory and instrumental diagnostics to identify what abnormalities have developed in the liver, the type, size and location of the pathological process.

The very first studies are a general blood test, a general urine test, a blood test for viruses and biochemistry. What indicators of biochemical analysis are important:

It is on these indicators that the primary diagnosis is based, and if the results deviate from the norm, a repeat and more in-depth examination is prescribed.

Instrumental methods:

1. Ultrasound of the liver + fibroscanning.
2. Laparoscopy.
3. Elastometry and elastography.
4. MRI and CT.
5. X-ray studies.
6. Scintigraphy.
7. Biopsy.

Only the attending physician, who has all the data, can decipher the results of the examination. You cannot make a diagnosis based on just one study - many liver pathologies have the same clinical signs, and even test results may show similarity in data.

Nadezhda writes: “A year ago I began to feel constant weakness, indifference to everything, and nausea. At a doctor’s appointment, a diagnosis of “vegetative-vascular dystonia” was made, a neurologist and a psychiatrist confirmed the diagnosis. I took nootropics and antidepressants, nothing helped, and some pills only made things worse.

They ordered me to take tests when I started itching wildly, and it turned out that I had high bilirubin, ALT and AST. The reason has not yet been determined, but the doctor said it was a liver problem. We are waiting for the rest of the results."

The main signs of liver pathologies occur in many people, but not everyone pays attention to them in a timely manner and ends up in the hospital with severe complications. Doctors recommend that you be attentive to your health - it is better to visit a doctor on time and quickly treat the disease in its early stages than to suffer from severe consequences later.

Liver diseases are immediately after neurological and cardiovascular diseases in terms of prevalence. Problems arise against the background of viruses, infections, injuries, abuse of junk food and alcohol, and autoimmune disorders. Most liver pathologies in adults and children have a similar clinical picture.

Most often, liver diseases arise not as separate independent phenomena, but as a consequence of various diseases

Causes of liver diseases

The main task of the liver is to cleanse the blood of toxic substances and synthesize bile, which is required for the normal digestion process. This gland takes part in the synthesis of hormones, the functioning of the immune system, and the breakdown of vitamins, but due to constant increased stress, malfunctions occur.

Normally, the gland has a soft, uniform structure, red-brown color, and weighs about 2 kg. In pathologies, a granular, flabby, loose liver is observed.

You can see what a healthy and diseased organ looks like in the photo.

Appearance of a diseased and healthy human liver

Why do liver diseases occur?

• regular penetration into the body of toxic substances of biological and non-biological origin with constant contact with heavy metals, living in regions with poor ecology;
• lipid metabolism disorder– fats accumulate in the liver tissues, fatty hepatosis and cirrhosis develop;
• long-term and unsystematic use of antibiotics, antifungals, hormonal drugs leads to rapid depletion of liver tissue;
• viral pathologies– when the gland is damaged by hepatitis A, B viruses, inflammatory processes occur and cirrhosis develops;
• chronic infectious diseases– provoke the development of an abscess, liver failure, and cysts form;
• helminthic infestations– when infected with helminths, the liver has to constantly process toxins that are released during their life;
• autoimmune pathologies;
• abdominal injuries– signs of a damaged, broken liver appear immediately or after several months, years, cysts and tumors form;
• alcoholism– the outflow of bile is disrupted, congestion and inflammation develop, stones form, liver tissue is destroyed;
• passion for unhealthy, junk food– one of the main causes of liver dysfunction in children;
• hereditary factor, abnormalities of liver development;
• long-term exposure to radiation and ionizing radiation– the main reason for the degeneration of liver cells into cancerous tumors.

The liver is the only internal organ that is capable of regeneration; the cells are resistant to the negative effects of external factors.

Symptoms and first signs

Liver pathologies at the initial stage of development do not bother a person - no, because the gland does not have nerve endings that are responsible for the occurrence of pain, so pronounced signs appear already in advanced forms of the disease, when they worsen.

Manifestation of liver diseases:

• weakness, increased fatigue, drowsiness or insomnia, tremors of limbs, confusion, convulsions;
• nagging pain, a feeling of heaviness in the right hypochondrium, increases with physical activity, after drinking alcohol, fatty or fried foods;
• darkening of urine;
• frequent bouts of diarrhea, discoloration of stool;
• swelling of the face and limbs;
• increased sweating, hot flashes at night;
• the appearance of extensive hematomas even with a minor blow, severe bleeding - the problem arises due to the fragility of the vascular walls;
• bitter taste in the morning, yellow coating on the tongue, bad breath;
• headaches often occur, memory deteriorates;
• numbness of the limbs, hands and feet are constantly cold;
• a slight increase in temperature, readings above 39 degrees against the background of other symptoms indicate the development of purulent processes in the ducts of the liver and gall bladder;
• joint pain, bone deformation.

External signs– yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, itching, palms acquire a red tint in the area of ​​the thumbs, the shape of the nails changes, and white spots appear on the plates. With an unhealthy liver, the skin peels off, skin rashes appear, pustules, cracks in the corners of the mouth, dermatitis and eczema develop.

With serious liver problems, the volume of the abdomen increases, a venous pattern appears on the skin, and weight decreases sharply. The dysfunction of the organ is indicated by darkening of the armpit area, dark spots on the right forearm and shoulder blade, comedones on the shoulders, the back of the hand, and a crimson-colored varnished tongue.

With poor liver function, women often develop stretch marks on the abdomen and rosacea, brown spots and deep wrinkles on the face between the eyebrows, dark circles and bags under the eyes. There is a decrease or increase in the rate of hair growth in the armpits and pubic area, atrophy of the mammary glands, and disruptions in the menstrual cycle. In men, the hair on the head noticeably thins, libido decreases, potency deteriorates, and breasts become enlarged.

Classification of liver diseases

Liver diseases (hepatopathy)– a complex concept, includes various pathologies that differ in origin, there is no clear generally accepted classification, doctors are guided by an approximate gradation. The code for liver diseases according to ICD-10 is K70–K77.

Liver diseases are classified based on the cause of the organ dysfunction.

Hepatitis A is more often diagnosed in children - the disease is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, which leads to epidemic cases.

Which doctor should I contact?

A hepatologist is also involved in identifying the causes and eliminating liver diseases. Additionally, the patient is prescribed an infectious disease specialist.

Diagnostics

Initially, the doctor will be able to assess the degree of liver enlargement and make a preliminary diagnosis after examination, taking an anamnesis, and palpating the area of ​​the right hypochondrium and abdomen. To identify the cause of the pathology, an additional comprehensive examination is prescribed.

Diagnostic methods:

• general analysis of urine and blood;
• coprogram;
• biochemical blood test to determine the level of liver enzymes;
• hepatitis test;
• tumor marker test;
• biopsy, diagnostic laparoscopy;
• Ultrasound of the abdominal organs;
• MRI, CT.

Liver biopsy is one of the most reliable diagnostic methods for identifying the disease.

The appearance of a sweetish, fishy odor from the mouth is a reason to immediately consult a doctor; the symptom indicates rapidly developing liver failure.

Treatment of liver diseases

Diet- one of the main methods of therapy for liver dysfunction; at the initial stage of disease development, it is enough to reconsider your diet and lifestyle in order to get rid of unpleasant sensations. Drug treatment helps to cope with discomfort in severe forms of pathologies, prolong the remission stage, and reduce the risk of complications.

Drugs

The basis of therapy for a diseased liver is hepatoprotectors - they promote cell restoration and eliminate the symptoms of diseases. The choice of additional means depends on the cause of the development of the pathology.

How to treat liver diseases:

• herbal remedies, artichoke– Karsil, Gepabene, Khofitol;
• essential phospholipids– Phosphogliv, Essentiale, normalize metabolic processes in liver tissues, accelerate the regeneration process;
• medicines based on animal ingredients– Hepatosan, Sirepar, cleanse the liver, protect the organ from the negative effects of hazardous substances;
• amino acid based products– Heptor, antioxidants, cleanses and restores the liver;
• medicines based on ursodeoxycholic acid– Ursofalk, Ursosan, have immunostimulating, choleretic, hepatoprotective effects;
• anti-inflammatory drugs– Nise, Nimesil;
• antiviral drugs– Interferon, Ribavirin;
• choleretic agents– Allohol, Holenzim;
• adsorbents– Smecta, Enterosgel;
• vitamin complexes, immunomodulators.

Hepatoprotectors are the basis of therapy in the treatment of liver diseases

For liver diseases of bacterial origin, it is difficult to choose drugs, since almost all antibiotics have a negative effect on the liver. List of effective and safe drugs - Rifampicin, Neomycin, Metronidazole.

Diet and sample menu

If the liver is damaged, proper nutrition helps normalize the digestion process and the outflow of bile, helps reduce the load on the organ, and eliminate dysfunction.

Basic diet– proteins and carbohydrates, fats in minimal quantities. Boiled, stewed, steamed, baked dishes are allowed. Fatty, fried, smoked, spicy, spicy foods and alcoholic drinks are contraindicated.

Maintaining the correct water balance in the body during liver treatment is no less important than following a diet

Drink at least 1.5 liters of pure water, 100–200 ml of alkaline water without carbon, 300–500 ml of rose hip decoction per day.

Sample menu for the day

Despite the large number of prohibitions, using permitted products for liver diseases allows you to prepare many tasty and healthy dishes.

Menu example:

• I breakfast – buckwheat porridge with milk, 2 crackers, weak green tea;
• II breakfast – low-fat cottage cheese with fruit;
• lunch - lean borscht, steamed chicken or veal meatballs, pumpkin puree, a piece of dried bread;
• afternoon snack – fruit mousse, jelly;
• dinner - boiled potatoes, baked fish, rosehip decoction;
• Before going to bed, drink a glass of low-fat kefir.

A glass of low-fat kefir at night is allowed if you are on a diet.

If you are diagnosed with liver disease, you will have to stick to the diet for the rest of your life.

Folk remedies

Alternative medicine methods help enhance the therapeutic effect of medications, accelerate the process of recovery and recovery from liver disease at home, and have a general strengthening effect on the body.

What herbs will help with liver problems:

• with hepatoprotective effect– milk thistle meal, dandelion roots and inflorescences, artichoke;
• choleretic– St. John's wort, corn silk;
• diuretics– rose hips, strawberry leaves;
• cholekinetics to prevent congestion– fennel;
• Choleretics activate the liver– birch, immortelle;
• antispasmodics– sage, chamomile;
• anti-inflammatory- calendula,

Immortelle herb will help activate the liver

Examples of effective recipes for a diseased liver:

1. Brew 20 g of dandelion flowers with 400 ml of boiling water, leave in a sealed container until cool, strain. Drink 100 ml three times a day before meals. The drink cleanses the liver, improves bile synthesis, and contains microelements useful for the functioning of the gland.
2. Grind 30 g of milk thistle seeds into powder, add 500 ml of water, simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, strain. Take 30 ml every hour during the day, duration of treatment is 10 days. The medicine cleanses liver tissue and promotes their restoration.
3. Mix 50 g of bean leaves, bearberry, and corn silk, pour the mixture into 1 liter of water, cook over low heat for a quarter of an hour, drink throughout the day instead of tea.

One of the best remedies for the treatment and prevention of liver diseases is honey water - before going to bed, dissolve 5 ml of beekeeping product in 200 ml of warm water, drink the drink in large sips in the morning immediately after waking up. To enhance the cleansing effect, add 30 ml of lemon juice.

Possible consequences and complications

If treatment is untimely or incorrect, liver decomposition begins, tissue degeneration occurs, and the gland ceases to function.

Why are liver diseases dangerous?

• the pressure in the portal vein increases - varicose veins of the stomach and intestines develop, and the risk of internal bleeding increases;
• ascites – accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity;
• peritonitis;
• diabetes;
• frequent fractures;
• encephalopathy - develops against the background of poor blood purification, a person can fall into a coma.

Improper or lack of treatment for liver disease can lead to fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity and ascites.

The main consequence of liver pathologies is cirrhosis, cancer, diseases in 70% of cases end in death, since the iron decomposes.

Prevention

Proper nutrition, weight control, giving up bad habits, maintaining a sleep and rest schedule, taking medications only as prescribed by a doctor - all this will help avoid the development of liver problems.

Hepatitis is often transmitted sexually; monogamous relationships and condoms will help prevent infection; if you are sexually active, tests should be done every six months. When working in hazardous industries, use protective equipment and follow safety regulations.

The best prevention of liver disease is proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.

The liver is an important organ in the human body; it performs more than 500 functions; when the gland is destroyed, its functionality decreases, which can cause disability and death. In treatment, hepatoprotectors are used based on plant and animal ingredients, phospholipids, amino acids, which promote organ regeneration. Following simple rules of prevention and proper nutrition will help avoid the occurrence of liver pathologies.

Liver- an exocrine gland, located in the upper right part of the abdominal cavity under the diaphragm and performs serious functions in the body, the violation of which puts a person’s life at risk. The liver is the only organ that renews damaged cells.

Within a minute, millions of chemical reactions occur in the liver with the synthesis of blood protein, bile acid, neutralization of harmful substances, accumulation of necessary glucose, as well as its breakdown into components.

The structural unit of liver tissue is the hepatic lobule. The number of such lobules is five hundred thousand. A central vein passes through the center of each lobule, from which special plates emerge, consisting of hepatocytes - liver cells. Each lobule also contains blood vessels (hemocapillaries) and bile capillaries.

Liver functions

The liver performs a number of physiological functions:

• metabolic - involved in metabolism:
  • proteins;
  • fats;
  • carbohydrates;
  • hormones;
  • vitamins;
  • microelements.
• secretory - forms and releases bile into the intestinal lumen, substances processed by the liver are released into the blood;
• detoxification - processes or destroys toxic compounds.

The central function of the liver is to neutralize toxins that appear in the body as a result of metabolic processes or enter the body from the outside with food, air, water, and metabolic end products. The liver's job is to break down toxic substances into non-toxic substances for the body.

The liver produces bile, which is necessary for the digestion of fats, but bile accumulates not in the liver, but in the gallbladder. In addition, proteins, hormones and other substances necessary for the functioning of the body are synthesized in the liver. The liver removes excess hormones, vitamins, and microelements.

The liver participates in fat (lipid) metabolism, synthesizing cholesterol, lipids and phospholipids, as well as bile acids and the bile pigment bilirubin.

Liver diseases

Descriptions of liver diseases

Causes of liver diseases

The causes of liver diseases are divided into four groups.

Viruses

Viral diseases include hepatitis types A, B, C, D and others, which provoke acute and chronic inflammatory processes. In 57% of cases, hepatitis develops into cirrhosis of the liver.

Fat metabolism disorder

The fat content in the liver cells increases, causing the gland to enlarge and lose its ability to function normally. This leads to the development of fatty liver disease and subsequently cirrhosis. Disorders of fat metabolism in the liver in Russia affect 27% of the population.

Alcohol

Alcohol abuse has a detrimental effect on liver cells, which over time becomes the cause of cirrhosis. Relatively safe daily dose of alcoholic drinks:

• for women per day:
  • less than 30 ml of vodka (cognac, whiskey);
  • 150 ml wine;
  • 250 ml beer.
• for men per day:
  • 60 ml of vodka (cognac, whiskey);
  • 300 ml wine;
  • 500 ml beer.

Medications

Uncontrolled use of medications leads to changes in liver tissue and disruption of the normal functioning of the organ.

These are roundworms, causative agents of leptospirosis, alveococci and echinococci, which lead to acute liver diseases, and then gradually become chronic if treated incorrectly or untimely. Sometimes a cystic change in the liver occurs.

Poor nutrition

If a person consumes a lot of smoked, fried, fatty foods and foods with spices for a long time: this leads to impaired excretion of bile, which causes cholangitis and the formation of stones in the liver.

A separate group includes other, less common causes due to the destruction of liver cells. These include:

• poisoning by vapors of heavy metals and chemical compounds;
• stress;
• abdominal injuries;
• diseases of the abdominal organs;
• ionizing radiation and carcinogens;
• genetic predisposition.

Under the influence of these factors, changes begin in the liver, which ultimately lead to dysfunction of the organ.

Common symptoms of liver disease

As a rule, liver diseases appear gradually, without specific symptoms.

The first signs of liver disease

• increased fatigue and weakness;
• pain or heaviness in the right hypochondrium;
• bitterness in the mouth, heartburn, nausea and vomiting.

Jaundice

Liver diseases are characterized by the appearance of a yellow tint to the skin. At the beginning, patients notice a characteristic yellowness of the sclera, and then the skin. This happens due to the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. More often, jaundice accompanies hepatitis and cirrhosis. At the same time, a darkening of the color of the urine is noted. As for feces, it becomes lighter, up to complete discoloration.

Other symptoms characteristic of liver disease

• spider veins;
• hair loss;
• insomnia;
• increased temperature and fever; memory impairment;
• enlarged skin veins in the abdominal area;
• fatty plaques on the eyelids;
• skin itching;
• raspberry tongue.

When to see a doctor

A doctor's consultation is required for the following conditions:

• unexplained fatigue, weakness and weight loss;
• jaundice or yellow skin;
• fever, vomiting and abdominal pain for a long time.

Diagnosis of liver diseases

An invasive way to study the liver is that liver tissue or cells are taken for examination, as a result of which the nature of the pathology becomes clear. The non-invasive method involves taking laboratory blood tests, the results of which are processed on a computer.

The following medical tests help determine the condition of the liver:

Treatment of liver diseases

Each liver disease has its own specific course of treatment. If the disease is viral in nature, antiviral and immunomodulatory medications are prescribed. In case of a chronic disease caused by an incorrect lifestyle, they change their daily routine, adhere to a special diet and refuse to drink alcoholic beverages.

Hepatoprotectors are prescribed to protect the liver and restore organ tissue, choleretic agents, which are combined with antispasmodics to normalize the outflow of bile.

In patients with cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease, medications are required to control the amount of protein in the diet. A cirrhotic liver is unable to metabolize waste products, resulting in elevated blood ammonia levels and hepatic encephalopathy (lethargy, confusion, coma). Diuretics are then used to minimize water retention.

In patients with large amounts of ascitic fluid in the abdominal cavity, the excess fluid requires periodic removal with a needle and syringe. Using a local anesthetic, a needle is inserted through the abdominal wall and the doctor drains the fluid. .

Surgeries are performed to treat portal hypertension and minimize the risk of bleeding. Patients with gallstones sometimes have surgery to remove the gallbladder.

Liver transplantation is the final option for patients whose liver function cannot be restored.

Folk remedies for treating liver diseases

Hepatoprotector plants are used in the treatment of liver diseases with folk remedies.

The use of folk remedies must be agreed with the attending physician.

Milk thistle

The main herb for treating the liver is milk thistle, which normalizes liver function, protects against the effects of toxins, and restores liver cells. It is better to use seed powder or meal, which remains after squeezing the oil. Milk thistle seeds have a laxative effect, so it is not suitable for people with digestive disorders.

People over 40 years of age are required to undergo liver treatment with milk thistle. Take once a year for 3-4 weeks 1 tsp. per day with a glass of water.

After a course of such treatment, dark circles under the eyes, which arise due to insufficient liver function, disappear. Milk thistle is used in the treatment of cirrhosis, hepatitis, jaundice, and fatty liver hepatosis.

Cinquefoil erecta (galangal)

The tincture is made as follows: 50 g of dry galangal roots, pour 0.5 liters of vodka, leave for 3 weeks. For liver diseases and hepatitis, drink 30 drops 3 times a day 20 minutes before meals, diluted in 50 g of water.

Pumpkin

Take a pumpkin, cut off the top, remove the core and seeds. Fill the resulting container halfway with honey. Leave for a while until the juice appears. Drink this juice half a glass 3 times a day.

Cut off the top, remove the seeds, fill with honey, close with a lid-top, cover the cut with dough. Keep the pumpkin in a dark place for 10 days at room temperature. On the 11th day, start treatment: take the resulting juice, 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day 40 minutes before meals. The course of treatment is 1 month.

Pumpkin juice will also help restore and cleanse the liver of toxins. Grate the pumpkin and squeeze out the juice, take 100 g of fresh juice 3 times a day 1 hour before meals. The course of liver treatment with pumpkin is 3-4 months.

Oats

Wash 1 glass of oats, boil 1 liter of milk and pour oats into it, bring to a boil, keep on low heat, avoiding boiling for 10-15 minutes. Then wrap the broth and let it brew for 2 hours. Strain and drink this milk throughout the day. The course of liver treatment is 20 days, then a 10-day break and a new course.

Eryngium flatifolia

To prepare a tincture for liver treatment, take 30 g of dry herb and pour 500 ml of vodka, leave for 2 weeks, shake, strain. Take 1 tbsp for 1 month. l. three times a day 30 minutes before meals.

The grass is half fallen

The treatment recipe is as follows: 1 tbsp. l. pour 1 cup of boiling water over the herbs and leave for 15 minutes in a water bath. Drink 100 g through a straw 30 minutes before meals, warm.

Dandelion jam

Collect 400 dandelion flowers, wash and soak for a day. Then drain the water and rinse the flowers again. Cut 2 lemons along with the zest, mix with the flowers and pour 500 ml of boiling water over it. Cook over low heat for 15 minutes. Then cool, strain, squeeze. Add 1 kg of sugar to the broth and cook until the jam becomes thick and resembles honey.

Take 2 tsp. 3 times a day before meals. The syrup is dissolved in a glass of warm water. After taking the syrup, pain sometimes appears in the liver or in the gall bladder area and lasts for 0.5-1.5 hours - this is normal.

Dandelion syrup: the flowers are placed in a jar, sprinkled with honey or sugar, compacted, soon syrup appears on top, which needs to be strained and put in the refrigerator. Take 1 tsp for pain in the liver and gall bladder, for colic. 4 times a day. Pain in the liver disappears after 10-15 minutes.

Honey and currants

Mix 1 kg of honey and 1 kg of currants. Take 1 tsp. 30 minutes before meals.

cucumbers

If your liver hurts, this recipe will help: chop 100 g of overripe cucumbers, boil them in 0.5 liters of water for 20 minutes, cool, strain. Drink the decoction 3 times a day, half a glass, half an hour before meals.

Carrots and raisins

1 kg of seedless raisins, preferably lighter ones, and 1 kg of bright-colored carrots, put through a meat grinder. Place in a pan, add 1.5 liters of water, make a mark on the outside of the pan according to the water level. Add another 1 liter of water and boil over low heat until the mark is reached. Cool and strain. Store in the refrigerator, warm up to 37-40 degrees before use.

Drink during the week as follows: 1st day. On an empty stomach, drink 1 glass of broth, lie down on a hot heating pad for 2 hours. 2nd – 7th days. Drink half a glass of the decoction in the morning on an empty stomach, no longer need to lie down and warm it, and have breakfast after 30 minutes.

Cinnamon with honey

For a diseased liver, this recipe helps: mix 0.5 liters of honey with 2 tbsp. l. ground cinnamon, stir. Take 1-2 tbsp before meals. l. 4-5 times a day.

Collection of herbs

Take 2 tbsp. l. rosehip and hawthorn fruits, pour 1.5 liters of water. Boil for 10 minutes. Then add optional 1 tsp. three types of herbs:

• corn silk;
• birch leaves;
• strawberry leaves;
• agrimony;
• horsetail;
• woodlice.

Boil for another 3 minutes. Leave for 5 hours, strain. Drink 1 glass in the morning and evening with 1 tsp. honey

Immortelle

Immortelle is used in official and folk medicine as a liver remedy with bile-forming and bile-excreting properties. This herb is an effective remedy for treating the liver, bile ducts, and pancreas.

To prepare a remedy for treating the liver you need 1 tbsp. l. pour immortelle flowers with 1 glass of boiling water, leave for 15 minutes and drink 50 ml 3 times a day. You cannot use immortelle for a month in a row or increase the dose - the plant accumulates in the body and has a toxic effect in large doses.

After a week's rest, the course of treatment with immortelle is repeated. Often, when treated with immortelle, roundworms came out of the patient’s intestines - immortelle also has an anthelmintic effect. This plant increases blood pressure and is therefore not recommended for people with hypertension.

Oat decoction

Rinse 3 cups of unpeeled oats and add 9 cups of water. After boiling, simmer for 3 hours, leave, strain. Drink this portion 2 days, 100 g, 30 minutes before meals.

Yarrow and tansy syrup

Pour 2 cups of tansy flowers, 2 cups of yarrow flowers with 2 liters of cold water, leave for a day, and put on fire. As soon as the water starts making noise, remove it. After 3-5 hours, repeat again. Then strain and for each liter of broth add 600 g of sugar and 2 tbsp. l. honey Stir, bring to a boil, boil for 5 minutes. Take 25 g in the morning on an empty stomach and 25 g in the evening before bed. 1 liter of syrup is enough for 21 days. Then a 7-day break and a new course of treatment.

Chinese folk remedy for liver treatment

Take equal parts of birch buds, birch leaves, echinacea, immortelle, and anise fruits. Grind in a coffee grinder. Take 1/2 tsp powder. 2-3 times a day 15 minutes before meals, with a glass of water.

Lemon and soda

If your liver hurts, this remedy quickly helps: squeeze the juice of one lemon into a glass, add 0.5 tsp. soda, drink quickly. Helps relieve pain very quickly. This same folk remedy helps cure jaundice. It must be taken for three days in a row on an empty stomach.

Diet and nutrition for liver diseases

When treating liver diseases, dietary changes are required. Under no circumstances should you overeat or eat “on the go”; exclude “snacks”. You need to eat food five times a day, without skipping. For liver diseases, a special diet number 5 is prescribed.

Restrictions

• consumption of alcohol, spicy, sweet, smoked, fatty;
• peppers, onions, garlic and spices that irritate the gastrointestinal tract;
• lamb, pork and other fatty meats, fatty fish and offal;
• baking;
• salt;
• chocolate;
• butter.

• weak coffee;
• compotes;
• rosehip decoction;
• jelly;
• still mineral water.

Liver cleansing

Tubage is a washing procedure that leads to cleansing of the gallbladder, bile ducts and liver, as well as the kidneys. Tubage is used when it is necessary to cleanse the body of accumulated toxins and stagnant bile. For tubes you will need to purchase mineral water without gas.

The procedure for cleansing the liver must be agreed with your doctor.

Early in the morning, place a heating pad under your right side and in this position drink half a liter of mineral water. The mechanism of tubage is simple - under the influence of heat, the bile ducts expand, and the accumulations leave the body painlessly through the intestines.

When carrying out these procedures, relaxation is possible, so use the tubes once every 7 days on a day off for four weeks in a row. In the future, repeat the procedures every 3-4 months.

To facilitate liver function, in addition to tubages, absorbents are used:

• Activated carbon;
• polyphepane;
• enterosgel.

It is necessary to take into account that when taking activated carbon and other medications, the latter are removed from the body along with toxins. Therefore, it is recommended to drink activated charcoal two hours before taking other life-saving medications or two hours after taking them.

Contraindications for liver cleansing

Stones and biliary dyskinesia.

Prevention of liver diseases

Prevention of liver diseases consists of following the rules of a healthy lifestyle. The stronger the patient’s immunity, the more the body will resist unfavorable factors.

Questions and answers on the topic "Liver diseases"

Question:How does liver disease affect childbirth?

Answer: If liver diseases are not detected in a timely manner, a pregnant woman may experience serious complications - fetal malnutrition, late toxicosis, problems during labor. If a pregnant woman is nevertheless diagnosed with liver pathology, she must be hospitalized. Most often this happens in the early stages or two weeks before birth. In some situations, with severe liver disease, it is necessary to terminate the pregnancy.

Liver diseases are acute or chronic. Damage to this important organ is equally dangerous for both men and women. However, the female sex has individual characteristics of the causes and symptoms of the disease.

Symptoms of liver disease in women can be discovered unexpectedly at an appointment with a gynecologist, cosmetologist, narcologist, or therapist. It is necessary to identify and promptly treat the disease as soon as possible. Severe consequences in the form of cirrhosis with liver failure and cancer are not the only problems that disrupt a woman’s health and life plans.

The term “hepatopathy” is usually used to designate various vague symptoms presumably associated with liver damage; it is not suitable for diagnosis.

What liver functions ensure a woman’s health?

The importance of normal liver function is the same for people of both sexes. This organ synthesizes a lot of necessary substances, is the largest depot of energy reserves, and utilizes biochemical processing methods toxins, poisons, and all waste products that the body receives from the external environment and produces during life.

It is impossible to replace the functions of the liver with another organ. A significant reserve supply of cells allows the work to be performed even with the loss of 1/3 of the parenchyma. Therefore, a person does not immediately detect the first signs of the disease.

The liver is involved in and controls all types of metabolism

In protein metabolism - synthesizes essential amino acids, various types of protein components for building cell membranes, performing transport functions, immunoglobulins, blood clotting and anti-clotting factors. In fat metabolism - produces lipoproteins, cholesterol, triglycerides.

Carbohydrate metabolism is ensured by obtaining energy from incoming glucose and glycogen reserves. In the liver, if necessary, reactions can occur to “extract” calories from proteins and fats. To carry out such a synthesis, enzymes and coenzymes are needed. Their role is played by vitamins B, PP, C, K, E, D, and reserves of microelements cobalt, iron, and copper.

The liver is connected to other organs through the endocrine system. For the female body, its role as a producer of sex hormones, ensuring the functioning of the adrenal glands and thyroid gland is extremely important.

A “factory” for processing waste and toxins with a healthy liver does not allow the accumulation of products remaining after the absorption of food, medicines, alcohol, industrial and household harmful substances. They are disinfected and released into the intestines with bile. At the same time, the liver maintains the necessary composition and process of bile formation for digestion.

The load increases significantly during pregnancy. During this period, the woman’s liver ensures hematopoiesis of the fetus and cleanses the blood of the mother’s body.

Impaired metabolism in the liver leads to diseases of other organs

Causes of liver damage in women

Various factors lead to liver problems. Viral hepatitis is an inflammatory disease that, depending on the type of virus, passes quickly or slowly into the chronic stage and is accompanied by a gradual loss of organ function. Without treatment, transformation into cirrhosis is inevitable - the irreversible replacement of liver cells (hepatocytes) with scar tissue.

Inflammation of the liver can be caused by toxic substances (medicines, salts of heavy metals), alcohol, an autoimmune process with increased sensitivity and the production of antibodies to one’s own cells. Among harmful medications, the influence of antibiotics, hormonal drugs, contraceptives, and cytostatics should be taken into account.

Nutrition requires constant participation of the liver in processing incoming components. Malfunction is accompanied by significant consumption of animal fats, fried and smoked meat, and spicy foods. Bile production is disrupted. The lack of a sufficient amount of vegetables and fruits creates a deficiency of vitamins, which significantly complicates the synthesis of enzymes.

Unfavorable heredity is expressed in genetic enzymopathies or predisposition to inflammatory diseases. It can be expressed in disruption of the structure of the liver tissue and vascular bed.

Acute suppurative diseases of the abdominal organs bring the source of infection close to the liver, creating favorable conditions for the spread of the lesion to the portal vein (pylephlebitis) and the occurrence of organ abscesses. Abdominal injuries provoke the formation of cystic cavities in the liver.

Modern treatment of blood diseases and cancers using radiation in combination with chemotherapy leads to hepatitis and is accompanied by signs of liver disease. Receiving a significant dose of radioactive contamination in emergency situations includes symptoms of liver disease in women in the clinical picture of radiation injury.

The role of alcohol in liver damage in women

The effect of alcohol on the body differs from more stable men. Alcoholic liver disease develops with prolonged intake of maximum doses in terms of pure alcohol. The low resistance of women is explained by a lack of the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase in gastric juice. The hepatic portion of enzymes is quickly consumed, alcohol processing products acetaldehyde and acetic acid accumulate, which lead to cell destruction.

For women, the maximum dosage is 20–40 g of ethanol per day

The mildest stage is fatty degeneration or steatosis. It is detected in 100% of women who abuse alcohol. The process is enhanced by the simultaneous consumption of easily digestible carbohydrates, obesity or excess weight. Disorders of fat metabolism worsen. For women, the critical period begins at menopause, when hormonal protection ceases.

As a result, an increase in the formation of triglycerides in hepatocytes leads to the deposition of fatty inclusions. At this stage, all changes can disappear without consequences if the woman gives up alcohol for at least a month. It is important that the disease does not yet show any symptoms. In case of continued intake of alcohol, fatty degeneration occurs (replacement of hepatocytes with adipose tissue).

Alcoholic hepatitis is a more severe variant of the lesion. In the center of the liver lobules, in response to acetaldehyde, an accumulation of inflammatory elements occurs, and a special protein, hyaline, is formed. It affects cells, compresses bile ducts and blood vessels, causes stagnation of bile, and oxygen starvation of hepatocytes.

The consequence is death and replacement by fibrous tissue. With a loss of more than 50–70% of the number of hepatocytes in a diseased liver, symptoms of liver failure appear.

Signs of liver disease in women

The first signs appear as general symptoms that are not specific to liver damage. They are ignored or explained by other reasons. Upon careful questioning, the woman talks about:

• feeling of heaviness in the hypochondrium on the right;
• unknown weakness, drowsiness;
• loss of appetite;
• problems with stool;
• the occurrence of bruises.

The cosmetologist’s patients, who carefully observe the signs of youth and beauty, note:

• increased formation of wrinkles;
• dryness and flaking of the skin;
• the appearance of pigment spots;
• loss of elasticity;
• red dots and “stars” on the face;
• yellow-gray tint;
• swelling in the morning;
• small pustules and rashes due to decreased immunity.

Hair becomes brittle and falls out more

Hair growth in the armpits and pubic area decreases. A woman consults a gynecologist about prolonged menstrual bleeding, irregular periods, or the inability to become pregnant. This is caused by the onset of disturbances in the synthesis of substances of the coagulation system and sex hormones.

As the disease progresses, the following appear:

• pain in the hypochondrium on the right and in the epigastric zone - constant dull (with hepatitis, cirrhosis, pylephlebitis) or paroxysmal (with cholecystitis, liver abscesses);
• pain may be accompanied by fever and chills (abscess, pylephlebitis);
• nausea and vomiting with bitterness - indicates a violation of bile secretion, intoxication;
• urine becomes dark and feces become lighter - the sign depends on the release of bilirubin into the blood;
• loss of appetite, apathy, drowsiness - associated with toxic effects on brain cells;
• weight loss

The skin first turns pale, then acquires a yellowish tint; the sclera of the eyes may turn yellow even earlier. Typically the appearance of age spots on the face and body, pustular rash, itchy skin, red spots on the palms and soles.

In the chronic course of diseases, all signs accumulate gradually. External symptoms are combined with the condition of the liver. During palpation, you can feel the protruding edge of the organ in the right hypochondrium, soft or sharp, and palpate hard nodes.

Examination and observation of the patient draws attention to an enlarged abdomen with cirrhosis, dilatation of the saphenous veins in the peri-umbilical zone. This is due to the consequences of hypertension in the portal vein system, the effusion of fluid into the abdominal cavity.

The abdomen becomes tense and the navel protrudes. Some women experience separation of the linea alba muscles and an umbilical hernia. With a slight pushing movement, on the one hand, a wave is felt on the other.

The neuropsychic sphere of a person changes. The woman becomes apathetic, loses her mental ability to remember, study anything, and constantly wants to sleep. Poisoning of brain cells leads to encephalopathy and coma.

Bleeding disorders are accompanied by bleeding gums, nosebleeds, hemorrhoids, and hematomas throughout the body. In case of cirrhosis with high pressure in the portal vein system, there is a risk of gastric and esophageal bleeding. The woman vomits a bloody mixture and black, loose stools.

Due to increased bleeding gums and bad breath, women turn to the dentist

What examination does the doctor prescribe?

Patients with even minimal symptoms should carefully approach the problem of examination, take all tests and undergo studies to determine the role and extent of liver damage.

A urine test checks for the presence of excretion of bilirubin, protein, and glucose. Special tests are prescribed to detect viral hepatitis: viral markers, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for antibodies or antigens, immunoblotting, polymerase chain reaction method to detect RNA viruses.

A gynecologist-endocrinologist will advise you to check the hormonal composition of the blood and prescribe an ultrasound of the genital organs, thyroid gland, and adrenal glands.

To check the structure of the liver, size, and circulatory conditions of the organ, the following are used: ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. These methods are used to diagnose nodular formations and enlarged lobes. A cytological conclusion is obtained only after examining punctate material or liver tissue biopsy.

To decide on surgical intervention, you may first need to examine the surface of the organ using laparoscopy. Under anesthesia, a probe with an optical device at the end is inserted into the peritoneum through a small incision. It is possible to take samples of material from the damaged area. The diagnosis is made only after comparing all types of studies.

Treatment of diseases

Therapy for liver disease should begin early. The organ's resistance to damaging factors gives it a chance to preserve and support the remaining intact tissues.

Women suffering from alcoholism have the opportunity to restore some of the liver cells with the help of intensive therapy and complete abstinence from drinking alcohol. At the same time, a very positive aspect is a change for the better in appearance, the appearance of signs of skin rejuvenation, and the elimination of cosmetic defects.

Diet

Liver pathology is accompanied by impaired absorption of food, especially fat. Exacerbation of pain syndrome is often associated with overeating. Therefore, the following should be excluded from the diet of a sick person:

• fatty meat dishes;
• confectionery and sweets;
• legumes;
• hot seasonings and sauces;
• porridge from pearl barley, corn, wheat and barley;
• smoked meats and pickles;
• all types of alcohol, sparkling water, beer;
• strong coffee and tea;
• baking;
• any fried foods.

You should absolutely avoid fast food

It is recommended to exclude radishes, radishes, garlic, onions, white cabbage, sorrel, spinach from the set of vegetables, and cranberries, citrus fruits, currants, raspberries, and grapes from berries and fruits. The following juices are contraindicated: tomato, grape, orange.

To restore the cells of a diseased organ, all substances, vitamins, microelements, and sufficient calorie intake are needed. The following foods are allowed in the diet:

• lean meat (chicken, rabbit, veal);
• vegetable, mucous, milk soups with cereals;
• low-fat kefir, cottage cheese;
• seafood, low-fat fish;
• products made from high-grade wheat (pasta);
• cereals (oatmeal, buckwheat);
• steamed egg white omelette;
• salads with fresh vegetables and herbs, seasoned with vegetable oil;
• fresh fruits, vegetables, compotes, decoctions, juices, fruit drinks.

Drug therapy

Hepatitis is treated with different means depending on the etiology (antiviral drugs, corticosteroids, antibiotics, cytostatics). The class of essential phospholipids includes Essentiale Forte, Phosphogliv, Esliver. Normalize fat metabolism in hepatocytes.

Herbal preparations:

• from milk thistle Gepabene, Silimar, Karsil, Silymarin;
• from chicory and yarrow LIV-52;
• from artichoke Hofitol.

If functional liver disorders are detected in pregnant women, obstetricians recommend, in addition to diet, taking the well-known hepatoprotector Essentiale for a course of 40–60 days.

The class of medicines of animal origin includes drugs made from the liver of pigs and cattle; they are suitable for humans to cleanse the body and relieve intoxication (Sirepar, Hepatosan).

The drug belongs to the group of dietary supplements

When do you turn to surgery?

Symptomatic treatment of cirrhosis may require hemostatic agents, urgent surgical intervention for varicose veins of the esophagus and stomach. Removal of a liver abscess or hydatid cyst is carried out under conditions of extreme caution. The entry of the pathogen into the blood causes general sepsis.

In case of hypertension in the portal vein system, operations are performed to create additional blood outflow pathways. In cases of severe liver failure, it is impossible to restore the organ, so the only option is a donor liver transplant.

In folk medicine, for the chronic course of diseases, after the signs of exacerbation have been removed, decoctions and tinctures of the following medicinal herbs are recommended: dandelion and artichoke roots, rose hips, strawberry leaves, and corn silk. Milk thistle cake (meal) can be purchased at the pharmacy. It is brewed in a thermos or taken before meals, chewed and washed down with water.

For a woman's health, liver dysfunction threatens many problems. Even minor signs cause lasting changes over time. Therefore, examination and treatment cannot be delayed. This is especially true for women hoping to give birth to a healthy child.

Liver diseases have become increasingly common in recent years, with the number of people dying due to them increasing every year. Some experts believe that there is every reason to declare a real epidemic of these diseases.

You can list for a long time the functions that this organ performs in the human body. Without it, the digestive process cannot fully take place; tissues and cells will not be sufficiently supplied with vitamins. Liver diseases are usually associated with increased load on it and disruption of the recovery process, which leads to organ destruction, inflammation, deformation and decreased functionality.

Some names of liver diseases are known to every person due to their widespread prevalence. No one is immune from their occurrence, and the factors causing certain types of pathologies have not yet been precisely determined by doctors. Their danger is that they can provoke the development of cancer and other life-threatening conditions.

Every person should know what types of liver diseases there are in order to be promptly diagnosed by a doctor in order to prevent complications. If this organ is not in a satisfactory condition, other systems of the body suffer - the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and brain cannot fully perform their work.

Autoimmune liver diseases are associated with an attack on its cells with their subsequent destruction of the immune system itself. As a result, inflammation develops.

This subtype includes the following ailments:

• Autoimmune hepatitis is of types 1 and 2. Type 1 most often affects young women, aged 15 to 40 years. According to doctors, the factor provoking its development is genetic predisposition, although this information has not yet received convincing confirmation. Type 2 occurs, as a rule, in girls and young women. People suffering from hepatitis develop liver damage and failure at a progressive rate, with subsequent, more destructive and dangerous phenomena.
• primary biliary cirrhosis occurs mainly in women and is characterized by severe itching, ulcers, jaundice and subsequent deterioration in the performance of all organs;
• cholangitis appears in combination with colitis and ulcers.

• ascariasis - caused by roundworms, it often affects people who live in tropical and subtropical climates;
• echinococcosis often occurs in people whose field of activity is related to cattle breeding and working with animals; it is often differentiated with various tumors and neoplasms;
• trichinosis;
• giardiasis;
• opisthorchiasis.

All of them are accompanied by severe allergic reactions, diarrhea and disruption of basic processes in the body.

Chronic liver diseases are also often observed, which appear from time to time and then fade away indefinitely. For example, viral hepatitis and cirrhosis can take this form.

There are 6 types of viral hepatitis:

• a - also called Botkin’s disease, or “disease of dirty hands”, is diagnosed mainly in children, due to unsanitary conditions in public places;
• B - also called whey. Infection occurs through blood, from a sick mother to a child, through sexual intercourse or through interaction with unsterile instruments during dental treatment or tattooing. Getting rid of it is long and difficult.
• c - the most severe type, the foci of infection are the same as with type B;
• d - accompanies subspecies B;
• e - occurs due to insufficient hygiene, in regions with poor water quality and hot climate;
• g is an insufficiently studied form.

The first four subtypes can take a chronic course and subsequently cause cirrhosis. It is almost impossible to cure it, perhaps only to slow down its progression. In many medical sources it is classified as fatal, as it is a direct cause of coma, sepsis, internal bleeding and tumors.

Diagnosis of liver diseases is carried out by conducting the following medical studies:

• blood test - general, biochemical, for the presence of viruses;
• immunological testing;
• biopsy;
• genetic tests.

Doctors - hepatologist, gastroenterologist - can answer the question in more detail about what liver diseases exist.

Symptoms of liver disease

Liver disorders are insidious in that they often do not manifest themselves at all in the initial stage, and do not bother the person at all. In most cases, they are diagnosed already when they have moved from the initial stage to a progressive, or even advanced stage.

Treatment of diseases of the renal system should begin immediately when any signs appear, because they can cause great inconvenience, and especially severe forms become a direct cause of death.

The urine turns dark yellow, and the feces turn light yellow, dark brown, or sometimes even green. In addition, diarrhea and yellowness of the skin are observed. Your doctor will tell you in more detail about the symptoms and treatment of liver disorders, because they can be different and manifest themselves in several places and systems of the body.

Other signs of liver disease are:

Liver pathology can be judged by the following signs:

• discomfort and pain in the area of ​​this organ, its enlargement;
• loss of strength, general weakness;
• headaches;
• impairment of mental abilities and thinking function;
• itching and rash;
• vascular weakness;
• frequent bleeding;
• hypovitaminosis;
• changes in the nature and color of stool;
• an increase in the size of the abdomen, the appearance of vascular venous “patterns” around it;
• sudden weight loss;
• tongue cracks, plaque.

The manifestation of liver problems is observed from different angles, so when a patient approaches and complains, the doctor will definitely examine the skin and ask several general questions.

What are the skin signs of liver disease? It begins to change, and it is by its condition that the problem is usually diagnosed. Pathology is indicated by:

• jaundice - not only of the skin, but also of the mucous membranes and eye sclera;
• brown tint to the groin and armpits;
• the presence of strong and deep scratching;
• rashes, spots on the skin called pigment spots are also often present;
• vascular “branches”;
• red palms in the phalangeal areas of the fingers;
• cracks in the corners of the lips, dryness, peeling;
• frequent hemorrhages under the skin, bruises;
• white spots on nails;
• stretch marks;
• swelling of the veins extending from the navel.

Signs and symptoms of liver disease also occur in the form of digestive disorders:

• feeling of heaviness and fullness;
• constipation or diarrhea;
• nausea;
• dark urine and colorless stools;
• fishy smell or sweet taste in the mouth.

The first symptoms of liver disease that alarm a person are an unexpected increase in the circumference of the abdomen and swelling of the legs. The patient may notice that the button on his trousers is difficult to fasten - this is due to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

The initial signs of problems with this organ are sleep disturbances, for example, in the form of drowsiness during the day and insomnia at night, lethargy and restlessness. The sick person may even fall into lethargy.

It is worth paying close attention to the first warning signals from the body, because they often help stop the development of pathology and prevent complications.

In women, liver disorders manifest themselves initially in the form of hormonal imbalances and menstrual irregularities. Menstruation may be too long and too heavy, because the blood vessels become brittle and hemophilia develops, that is, a decrease in the ability of blood to clot. For the fair sex, the appearance of stretch marks on the skin is also considered an alarming signal - they are the object of close attention, especially among young girls.

In men, the first symptoms are often hormonal in nature, and are associated with the conversion of testosterone to estrogen (male to female hormone). It appears like this:

• increase in breast size;
• changes in the nature of hair growth;
• impotence;
• testicular atrophy.

How to determine liver disorder yourself? Spontaneous nosebleeds, or when brushing your teeth, or unexplained fatigue, which affects performance and significantly reduces its quality, should alert you.

In addition, severe itching is considered a sure sign of liver abnormalities in a person - the patient sometimes scratches the skin very hard, until pronounced marks appear. This is due to excess bilirubin deposits causing irritation.

What other signs of liver disease? Nervous disorders also signal a problem:

• tremor of fingers, changes in handwriting;
• memory loss;
• changes in personality;
• spontaneous consciousness or lack thereof;
• epilepsy;
• convulsions.

Since women have a stronger predisposition to certain types of diseases, they should definitely pay attention to the first signs. The insidiousness of the first symptoms for the fair sex is also that they do not always cause concern.

For example, hormonal disorders may be considered a temporary phenomenon associated with age, pregnancy or childbirth.

The first symptoms in men, in terms of skin and internal manifestations, resemble the initial warning signs in women. You should also pay attention to the nature of pain - they can be different:

• minor, aching, periodically appearing in the right hypochondrium;
• widespread and intense;
• strong, localized in the hepatic projection.

In both men and women, pain may be absent at all - this indicates an illness that progresses sluggishly. In this case, it usually goes unnoticed. A sign of the disease in both the stronger and the fairer sex is excessive pallor of the limbs and face and excessive sweating.

Your doctor will give you an exact answer to the question of what the symptoms of a particular liver disease are. You should contact him if you are alarmed by any changes in your condition.

Some warning signs of the body about the presence of pathology are quite clearly expressed, and it is difficult not to notice them.

Therapeutic measures are developed depending on the nature of the disease, its stage, and the complications to which it has led or will lead in the future. A balanced diet based on avoiding certain foods is the main therapeutic method.

Symptoms of liver diseases with proper nutrition at the initial stage of development of the disorder often disappear completely, because their occurrence is often associated with eating harmful foods.

Symptoms and treatment of liver diseases are the competence of a gastroenterologist, infectious disease specialist or hepatologist. The latter specialization is rare, usually only in private clinics.

Changing your diet when symptoms of the disease appear is a great way to get rid of them forever. The final decision on treatment methods should be made by the doctor.

Often the first signs in men or women are noticed by another specialist - a gynecologist, urologist or therapist. He prescribes the necessary consultations and examinations. Treatment with diet is one of the most effective ways to get rid of most associated problems that are not associated with abnormalities in the liver.

Diet for liver disease

Liver pathologies require a special diet, which is necessarily included in the treatment process; without it, it will not be complete and effective. The effectiveness of therapy depends on how accurately the patient adheres to the menu developed for him.

What can you eat if you have liver disease:

Also on the list of what you can eat for liver diseases is sauerkraut.

The patient's meals should be divided, preferably about 6 times a day. It is better to make yourself small portions.

Combinations of products are allowed - they can also be eaten in the form of stews or salads, puree soups. The main thing is that the patient prepares them by steaming, boiling, stewing or baking.

What not to eat if you have liver disease:

The diet of a person suffering from liver disease does not include the consumption of fried foods. When preparing permitted food, you can add salt to it to ensure that the body receives sufficient amounts of chlorine and sodium ions.

Everything that is allowed to the patient helps reduce the load on the liver. The body receives all nutrients in the right quantities.

Table 5 is also the name of special food for those who suffer from liver diseases.

An important aspect is that it is advisable to consume all dishes warm, and in no case hot.

Prevention of liver diseases

It is not always possible to influence their occurrence, and a person cannot protect himself from some particularly severe and serious illnesses. But the basic recommendations should still be followed - not only to prevent liver disease, but also to strengthen the entire body. The stronger the immune system, the greater the chance of recovery.

Preventive measures are:

• buy products only fresh and only from trusted manufacturers;
• do not abuse alcohol;
• ensure thorough disinfection of instruments in beauty parlors and at the dentist;
• avoid unprotected sexual contacts;
• adhere to the principles of a healthy lifestyle and nutrition;
• do not get carried away with taking medications;
• If you suspect an illness, consult a doctor promptly;
• take hepatoprotectors if you are predisposed to pathology.

Those working in enterprises with hazardous conditions must comply with all established precautions.

Treatment of liver diseases

It is based both on changing lifestyle, switching to a healthy diet and giving up bad habits, and taking medications, which are also called hepatoprotectors. These are drugs that maintain the optimal condition of the liver for good functioning and help restore its functions.

Basic medications for liver disease:

• “fanDetox” is a drug based on plant extracts, which not only promotes metabolism and improves liver functionality, but also strengthens the heart;
• "Liv 52". It contains chicory, yarrow and other natural ingredients. It is prescribed for various types of cirrhosis and hepatitis, acts as an excellent hepatoprotector, and is taken both as a preventive and therapeutic agent, both for adults and for children over 5 years of age.
• “heptral” additionally acts as an antidepressant, is widely used to treat chronic alcoholics and drug addicts, with severe intoxication of the body, but has many side effects;
• “karsil” is a drug that helps improve metabolism and weight loss, is well tolerated;
• “Essentiale Forte” consists of natural ingredients, has a large number of positive effects, and can also be prescribed to pregnant women.

Professional advice from doctors on liver care:

Homeopathic remedies are also widely used - for example, Galstena, as well as food additives, such as Ovesol.

Physical exercise is also recommended for liver disease. They help relieve spasms of the gallbladder, improve the metabolic process, restore the cardiovascular and nervous system, and strengthen the abdominal muscles.

Causes of liver diseases

The main factors provoking the development of pathology are:

Often, one or another illness is caused by excessive exposure to radiation, for example, while working in industrial plants or chemical plants.