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chronic liver disease stages
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Digestive Health
Question #15518
45 days ago
126

chronic liver disease stages - #15518

Mahi

I am really worried about my dad. He's been feeling super fatigued and complains about this weird itching all over his body. After some tests, the doctors said he might be in the early stages of chronic liver disease, but I’m not really sure what that means exactly. They mentioned something about chronic liver disease stages and how it can progress. I’ve read a little about it online, but all this medical jargon makes my head spin. How do these chronic liver disease stages work? Why is he experiencing the itching? Like, does it get worse over time? I heard something about stage one being mild and stage four being severe, but what happens in each of these chronic liver disease stages? Is there any way to manage or even reverse some of the effects of chronic liver disease? I’m just feeling lost and scared that this could lead to something serious. Should I push for more tests or seek a second opinion? Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thanks!

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Doctors’ responses

Chronic liver disease often progresses through several stages, which helps in assessing the underlying extent of liver damage. These stages range from mild liver changes to more severe liver dysfunction. Generally, there are four main stages. Stage one is marked by liver inflammation that can cause fatigue, but usually liver function remains stable. The body’s immune response kicks in but this stage can be asymptomatic for many. Stage two sees fibrosis or scarring, starting to replace healthy liver tissue. It’s still potentially reversible with lifestyle changes and medical interventions but can progress without treatment. Stage three involves more severe fibrosis, referred to as cirrhosis, where scar tissue extensively replaces normal tissue, impairing liver function and leading to complications like variceal bleeding. Itching, or pruritus, is common and often due to bile salts accumulating in the blood when the liver fails to process them.

Stage four is advanced cirrhosis, where liver function is severely compromised, and the risk of liver failure or liver cancer increases. Symptoms exacerbate, including jaundice, severe swelling, and confusion due to toxins like ammonia that the liver fails to clear. If your dad is at an early stage, lifestyle adjustments such as quitting alcohol and maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables while reducing red meat and salt can help slow progression. Management includes regular monitoring and avoiding liver-toxic medications. Speaking to a hepatologist for a specialized opinion wouldn’t be unwise and ensures comprehensive care. Liver specialists can perform more specific tests like FibroScan or liver biopsy to accurately stage the disease. If his symptoms suddenly worsen or new symptoms like yellowing of the skin appear, seek immediate medical attention. Early intervention can indeed help manage and possibly reverse some liver damage.

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