The difference between fatty liver and liver cirrhosis

Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 21, 2024
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Fatty liver is shown through ultrasound as having an increased and finely detailed echo in the liver, which is completely different from liver cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis is generally caused by the progression of chronic hepatitis, commonly seen in hepatitis B-related cirrhosis, hepatitis C-related cirrhosis, and alcoholic cirrhosis. Cirrhosis resulting from drug-induced liver damage or from severe fatty liver is relatively rare in clinical practice. Therefore, we should not panic. Once diagnosed with fatty liver, it can be reversed through proper diet and reasonable exercise, and its progression to liver cirrhosis can be prevented. So, everyone, there is no need to rush or panic.

Other Voices

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Written by Ye Xi Yong
Infectious Diseases
1min 9sec home-news-image

How long can one live with hepatitis B-related cirrhosis?

We cannot give a definite answer on how long a patient with hepatitis B-related cirrhosis can live, as the life expectancy in late-stage cirrhosis is influenced by many factors including treatment measures, lifestyle adjustments, daily healthcare, and physical condition. Patients in the compensated stage of cirrhosis, if treated and the progression of cirrhosis is halted, with normal liver function and negative hepatitis B virus replication indicators, can work normally. In this state, the quality of life is good, and they can live to 70 to 80 years old. For patients in the decompensated stage of cirrhosis, if untreated and the cirrhosis is allowed to progress, about 70 to 80% may die within 5 years; however, aggressive treatment, including traditional Chinese medicine for liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, combined with antiviral treatment, bleeding prevention, liver protection, and liver transplantation, can significantly increase the survival time of patients.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
54sec home-news-image

Why does cirrhosis cause increasing weight loss and what can be done about it?

The reason why patients with cirrhosis are becoming thinner might be due to the decreased protein synthesis function of the liver after cirrhosis, leading to progressively lesser protein in the body, which results in the patient becoming thinner. It could also be because cirrhosis leads to poor digestion and absorption in patients, thereby reducing their absorption capacity and causing them to lose weight. Under these circumstances, some medications can be used for treatment, such as the infusion of albumin to supplement plasma proteins in the body. It is also important to actively treat the underlying cause of cirrhosis. For example, in the case of alcoholic cirrhosis, active efforts to abstain from alcohol and rehabilitative treatment are necessary. If the cirrhosis is caused by chronic hepatitis B virus infection, antiviral treatment should be administered.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
47sec home-news-image

What should I do if cirrhosis causes general weakness?

Liver cirrhosis can lead to general weakness due to electrolyte disorders or severe liver function impairment, causing the symptoms mentioned above. Once general weakness occurs, it is necessary to go to the hospital for comprehensive auxiliary examinations, such as liver function tests, routine blood tests, and electrolyte tests. Additionally, imaging studies of the abdomen should be performed to determine whether conditions like ascites, anemia, or hyponatremia exist. Different treatments are administered based on different disease diagnoses. For instance, if the weakness is due to severe ascites causing dilutional hyponatremia, sodium supplementation might be necessary, along with appropriate ascites drainage.

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home-news-image
Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
50sec home-news-image

The difference between fatty liver and liver cirrhosis

Fatty liver is shown through ultrasound as having an increased and finely detailed echo in the liver, which is completely different from liver cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis is generally caused by the progression of chronic hepatitis, commonly seen in hepatitis B-related cirrhosis, hepatitis C-related cirrhosis, and alcoholic cirrhosis. Cirrhosis resulting from drug-induced liver damage or from severe fatty liver is relatively rare in clinical practice. Therefore, we should not panic. Once diagnosed with fatty liver, it can be reversed through proper diet and reasonable exercise, and its progression to liver cirrhosis can be prevented. So, everyone, there is no need to rush or panic.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
1min 9sec home-news-image

What should be noted in the early stages of cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis is a disease characterized by diffuse fibrosis of the liver tissue, pseudolobules, and regenerative nodules. In China, it is mostly caused by chronic hepatitis B, with a small portion caused by chronic hepatitis C and alcoholic liver disease. What should be noted if someone has cirrhosis? Firstly, alcohol consumption should be restricted; regardless of whether the cirrhosis is alcohol-related, abstaining from alcohol is critical as it can further damage the liver cells; Secondly, a low-sodium diet is advised, meaning that salt intake should be reduced. Excessive salt can lead to fluid retention, resulting in ascites or edema; Thirdly, increase the consumption of vegetables and fruits and intake some high-quality proteins, such as beans or fish, but avoid raw seafood; Lastly, be cautious with the use of various medications. Drugs that cause liver damage should be avoided to prevent exacerbating cirrhosis.