The liver is responsible for controlling various processes in our body, most notably fat metabolism. Bile, a fluid secreted by the liver, breaks down fats into fatty acids so that they can be absorbed by the body in the digestive system. When the flow of bile is restricted, a condition is known as cholestasis or cholestatic liver disease develops. Furthermore, bilirubin is a pigment formed in the liver. It is produced from old red blood cells when they are naturally broken down by the body. This is eliminated via bile and as a result, when it is not absorbed, bilirubin accumulates and causes problems.
Cholestatic liver disease can be caused in two ways: intrahepatic and extrahepatic. When abnormalities occur inside the liver, it is referred to as intrahepatic and when it is external to the liver, it is extrahepatic.
Among the many liver conditions, cholestatic liver disease is of mild concern. Find out more about it in the following sections ahead.
What Causes Cholestatic Liver Disease?
Cholestatic liver disease, a consequence of bile blockage can be caused by several reasons which are as follows:
- Medications
Most of the medicines that you take are metabolized in the liver. Hence, your liver is at a greater risk to receive the unwanted side effects of the medications you are on. Few of the antibiotics, antifungals, antimicrobials, antipsychotics, oral contraceptives, etc., can cause severe side effects on your liver and might be the potential reason behind the cholestatic liver disease.
- Hormonal conditions
Certain hormones affect the flow of your bile and might be one of the many reasons for cholestatic liver disease.
- Genetic disorders
Certain genetic conditions like Alagille syndrome severely affect the bile duct and other organs associated with liver function and thus might lead to cholestatic liver disease.
- Infection and other diseases
Certain disorders can induce scarring or inflammation of the bile ducts, resulting in cholestasis. Such diseases and infections include:
- Viral diseases caused by HIV, CMV, and Hepatitis
- Bacterial infections
- Autoimmunity
- Cancer
Hence, treatment of these primary diseases may help with the treatment for cholestatic liver disease.
- Pregnancy in some cases
When cholestatic liver disorder occurs during pregnancy, it is called obstetric cholestasis, details of which are addressed below.
What is Cholestasis of Pregnancy?
The occurrence of obstetric cholestasis is quite less. Its most prevalent sign is itching without any rash which is the result of the accumulation of bile in the blood. In the third trimester, itching aggravates. This is accompanied by other symptoms that include jaundice, light-colored stool, dark yellow urine, stomach ache, and nausea.
It is highly advised to inform your doctor about the itching and all the other symptoms. Avoid self-prescribing and using OTC drugs such as antihistamines, lotions which may not work and might harm your baby. Thus, consult your doctor so that you get the best of care without compromising on the health of your unborn baby. Obstetric cholestatic liver disease treatment in Gurgaon offers effective and successful solutions that care both for the mother and the baby.
What are the Risks of Cholestasis of Pregnancy & is it Dangerous?
Cholestasis liver disease during pregnancy can be a sign of a genetic disorder and might be an inherited condition. For instance, if earlier your sibling or your mother had this condition during their pregnancy, then you may acquire it as well. Contrarily, it may be hormonal as well. During pregnancy, several hormones capable of impairing the gallbladder function are released. This results in the accumulation of bile and flowing of it into your circulatory system.
The chances of obstetric cholestatic liver disease is more for women who are carrying multiples. This condition can be dangerous for both the mother and the infant. While it is not extremely life-threatening, it can lead to significant problems, such as premature birth and stillbirth.
The majority of instances of obstetric cholestasis are often temporary and may resolve once the baby is born. However, the disease might have a long-term impact on maternal health. According to a few studies, the probability of liver cancer is more in women who have had the cholestatic liver disease during pregnancy.
What are the Symptoms of Cholestatic Liver Disease?
Some patients might not exhibit symptoms, especially adults who are suffering from chronic cholestatic liver disease. The common symptoms include:
- Jaundice, that is, yellow eyes and skin
- Dark yellow urine due to excess pigment
- Abdominal pain
- Itchy skin
- Nausea and fatigue
- Pale stools
How is Cholestatic Liver Disease Diagnosed?
Preliminary diagnosis includes evaluation of medical history after which physical examination is carried out to find any inflammation in the abdomen or yellowing of eyes and skin. The next step of diagnosis is running blood tests for liver enzymes. If the findings of your tests are abnormal, your doctor may prescribe imaging tests such as an ultrasound or an MRI. A liver biopsy may also be performed by your doctor. Lastly, by condensing all the data, appropriate treatment for cholestatic liver disease will be planned for you.
How is Cholestatic Liver Disease Treated?
The first step in the treatment for cholestatic liver disease is to address any underlying cause. Once that is found, for example, if the condition is caused by your current medication, then it is halted and alternative medicine is given. If there is an existence of a tumor or a gallstone that is causing cholestasis, then surgery might be done to remove those tumors.
Takeaway
Cholestatic liver disease can strike at any time, regardless of age and gender. The extent of recovery is determined by how serious the condition was before it was identified. Another consideration is the disease’s underlying root cause and how effectively it can be managed. Gallstones, for example, can be removed, thus curing the illness. If the illness is caused by liver damage, treatment may be more difficult. You can however see cholestatic liver cancer treatment in Gurgaon for better outcomes and a higher chance of recovery.
Apart from medical help, you can also lower your risk of cholestasis by cutting down alcohol intake, getting vaccinated for hepatitis virus, avoiding narcotics, and consuming a healthy diet. If you suspect cholestasis, seek medical advice immediately, as treatment might increase your chances of complete recovery. So reach out to us for getting an effective cholestatic liver disease treatment in Gurgaon.
