What is Liver Cirrhosis?

Condition analysis:
Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver that involves the formation of fibrous (scar) tissue associated with the destruction of the normal architecture of the organ. It is the result of long-standing injury most commonly due to alcohol in excess but there are a number of other important causes

The destruction of the normal architecture and the loss of liver cells prevents the liver from functioning normally. It plays an important part in digestion of food but it also has a major role in metabolising drugs and making proteins, including those that help the blood to clot.

Cirrhosis is a serious condition. Only 30 per cent of patients with this problem will survive five years after diagnosis and the outlook is worse if the cause is alcohol and the patient continues to drink. What are the causes of the inflammation that leads to cirrhosis of the liver?

Alcohol excess:
The rate of cirrhosis in a country is directly related to the average alcohol consumption in that country. Half of all cases of cirrhosis are due to alcohol excess.

Chronic viral hepatitis:
The two important viruses are hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Cirrhosis due to hepatitis B is common in Africa and Asia. Hepatitis C is increasing in importance both in Europe and the US. Hepatitis A (infectious hepatitis) does not cause cirrhosis.

Primary biliary cirrhosis:
This is an uncommon disease mainly affecting women. It is not due to alcohol. For some reason the body mounts an attack on the liver in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis.

Autoimmune chronic active hepatitis:
Another uncommon condition that results in the body's immune system attacking and destroying liver cells.

Instructions:
Milk thistle is another useful remedy for cirrhosis. Although it will not reverse the existing liver damage, it can help protect against further damage. It contains an active ingredient called silibinin with strong antioxidant properties and detoxifying and hepatoprotective effects. Early research suggests that this herb can be useful for people with alcohol-related liver disease, but more research is still needed.

Milk thistle is available in supplement form as liquid extract, capsules and tincture. Consult your doctor for proper dosage and suitability for your condition. Note: Milk thistle may not be suitable for those suffering from complications like variceal bleeding or ascites due to cirrhosis. It is also not recommended for people with a history of hormone-related conditions.