Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) Treatment in Gurgaon, India
What is Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)?
Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) refers to long-term damage to the liver that affects its normal functioning and causes irreversible damage over time. Most patients with CLD have a history of chronic inflammation, infections, alcohol abuse, or liver diseases like hepatitis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
The liver plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including detoxification, digestion, and producing essential proteins. When the liver is unable to function properly due to Chronic Liver Disease or CLD, it can progress to liver cirrhosis, a severe form of liver scarring that significantly hampers liver function causing life-threatening complications.
What Are the Different Stages of Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)?
Chronic Liver Disease progresses through various stages, starting with mild fat accumulation and progressing to severe liver damage. Each stage affects treatment outcomes differently, making early detection and intervention crucial. The stages of CLD include:
Stage 1: Fatty Liver (Steatosis)
This is the earliest stage, where fat builds up in liver cells. At this stage, the liver may still function well without causing noticeable symptoms.
Stage 2: Inflammation (Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis)
In this stage, the liver becomes inflamed, leading to scarring. The liver starts showing signs of damage, and symptoms may become noticeable.
Stage 3: Fibrosis
The liver tissue begins to form scars due to prolonged inflammation. While the liver can still compensate for some damage, function is impaired.
Stage 4: Cirrhosis
At this advanced stage, extensive scarring of the liver has occurred. Cirrhosis can lead to liver failure, where the liver is unable to perform its critical functions.
Decompensated Chronic Liver Disease
When cirrhosis becomes severe, it can lead to decompensated liver disease, marked by symptoms like jaundice, fluid buildup, and confusion (hepatic encephalopathy).
What Are the Symptoms of Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)?
The symptoms of Chronic Liver Disease vary depending on the severity and stage of the condition. While some symptoms may be mild or unnoticeable in the early stages, they can become severe as the disease progresses. Common chronic liver disease symptoms include:
Fatigue and weakness are common in the early stages
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) due to liver dysfunction
Abdominal pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
Swelling in the abdomen or legs due to fluid retention
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Unexplained weight loss
Dark urine and pale stool
Itchy skin caused due to bile build-up in the liver
Confusion or cognitive difficulties, especially in advanced stages
Causes And Risk Factors Of Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)
The causes and risk factors of CLD are diverse. It can be triggered by lifestyle habits, genetic factors, infections, or certain medications. The most common causes of CLD include:
Chronic Alcohol Consumption
Excessive and long-term alcohol consumption is one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease.
Hepatitis Infections
Chronic hepatitis B or C infections can cause liver inflammation and damage.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Associated with obesity, diabetes, and poor diet, NAFLD is a leading cause of liver damage.
Autoimmune Diseases
Diseases like autoimmune hepatitis can cause the immune system to attack liver cells, leading to chronic liver damage.
Genetic Disorders
Conditions like hemochromatosis (iron overload) and Wilson’s disease (copper buildup) can damage the liver.
Medications and Toxins
Long-term use of certain medications or exposure to harmful substances can contribute to CLD.
Risk Factors for Chronic Liver Disease
Obesity and poor diet
Family history of liver disease
Unprotected sex with multiple partners (Hepatitis B and C risk)
Excessive alcohol intake
Diabetes and metabolic syndrome
When To Consult The Doctor For My Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) Treatment?
You should consult a doctor if you experience symptoms such as jaundice, severe fatigue, abdominal swelling, or persistent pain in the upper right abdomen. Additionally, if you have any risk factors for CLD, like excessive alcohol use, obesity, or a family history of liver disease, it’s important to seek medical advice regularly for early diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)
Diagnosing Chronic Liver Disease involves several tests to assess liver function and detect damage. Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment and management of the disease. The doctor may recommend the following tests for accurate chronic liver disease diagnosis:
Blood Tests
It is recommended for patients to analyze liver function and detect inflammation or liver cell damage.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs help assess liver size, texture, and the presence of fatty deposits or scarring.
Liver Biopsy
In some cases, a liver biopsy may be performed to determine the extent of liver damage and scarring.
Endoscopy
If cirrhosis is suspected, an endoscopy may be done to check for varices (enlarged blood vessels in the esophagus).
Chronic Liver Disease ICD-10 Code
The ICD-10 code for chronic liver disease varies depending on the type and cause of the disease. Some common codes include:
K70.1: Alcoholic cirrhosis
K73.9: Chronic hepatitis, unspecified
K74.6: Cirrhosis of the liver
Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) Treatment (Surgical & Non-Surgical)
Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) is a complex condition that requires a personalized treatment approach depending on the disease's stage, cause, and the patient's overall health. The treatment plan may include both non-surgical and surgical interventions. While non-surgical options like medication, lifestyle modifications, and monitoring are essential, surgical treatment may become necessary for patients with advanced stages of CLD, particularly when the liver's function is severely compromised.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Antiviral drugs for hepatitis B or C, corticosteroids for autoimmune hepatitis, and medications to control symptoms like pain and swelling.
Dietary modifications, weight loss, and avoiding alcohol are essential for managing CLD. A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat foods can help.
People with CLD require regular follow-up visits to monitor liver function and detect any progression of the disease.
Surgical Treatments
For patients with decompensated cirrhosis, liver cancer, or other severe liver conditions, a liver transplant is often the last resort and the most effective option. This procedure involves the replacement of the damaged liver with a healthy liver from a donor, either living or deceased. Liver transplantation is usually reserved for individuals with irreversible liver damage who are not responding to other treatments.
A liver shunt is a surgical procedure where a blood vessel is rerouted to bypass the liver, reducing the pressure in the veins and relieving some of the symptoms of portal hypertension. This procedure alleviates the risk of life-threatening complications like variceal bleeding (bleeding from enlarged veins in the esophagus) and ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen).
Surgery for Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma)
For individuals with liver cancer, surgery can sometimes be an option if the tumor is localized and the liver function is still sufficient. The most common surgeries include:
Liver Resection, is done if the liver tumor is small and localized, and the rest of the liver is healthy, a partial liver resection (removal of the cancerous portion) may be performed.
Liver Transplantation for Cancer which is done for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma confined to the liver and with cirrhosis, a liver transplant might be an option to both treat cancer and address liver failure.
In some patients with Chronic Liver Disease complicated by bile duct obstruction (caused by cirrhosis or cancer), a biliary bypass surgery may be required. This procedure is aimed at rerouting bile flow to relieve symptoms like jaundice and prevent liver damage caused by bile buildup.
Complications of Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)
If left untreated, CLD can lead to severe complications that affect overall health and quality of life. Complications can range from liver failure to cancer, making early intervention essential for better outcomes:
Liver Failure
When the liver can no longer perform its vital functions.
Liver Cancer
People with cirrhosis are at higher risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a form of liver cancer.
Esophageal Varices
Enlarged veins in the esophagus can rupture and cause life-threatening bleeding.
Kidney Failure
As liver function declines, the kidneys may also become affected, leading to renal failure.
Hepatic Encephalopathy
A condition where toxins build up in the brain, causing confusion, memory loss, and personality changes.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) Treatment?
Artemis Hospitals offers state-of-the-art facilities and expert liver specialists dedicated to providing world-class treatment for Chronic Liver Disease. With a multidisciplinary approach, cutting-edge diagnostic tools, and personalized care, Artemis Hospitals ensures the best outcomes for patients suffering from CLD. Whether you need non-surgical management or a liver transplant, Artemis Hospitals is equipped with advanced treatments to cater to every need.
To book an appointment with top hepatologist at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Pawan Rawal
Head Unit I - Gastroenterology
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
What lifestyle changes can help manage Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)?
Avoid alcohol, maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly to support liver health.
Can Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) be reversed?
CLD can be managed and the progression slowed, but in advanced stages like cirrhosis, the damage is usually irreversible.
What is the life expectancy for someone with Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)?
Life expectancy depends on the stage of the disease and how well it is managed. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
Is a liver transplant the only option for advanced CLD?
A liver transplant is the last resort for end-stage liver disease when other treatments are ineffective.
Can Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) cause diabetes?
Yes, conditions like fatty liver and cirrhosis can increase the risk of developing insulin resistance and diabetes.
How can I prevent Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)?
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight, and get vaccinated for hepatitis to reduce your risk.
Is there a cure for Chronic Liver Disease (CLD)?
While there is no cure for CLD, proper treatment and lifestyle modifications can manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
