leverfunksjonssvikt

Leverfunksjonssvikt, also known as liver failure, is a serious medical condition where the liver is unable to perform its vital functions. These functions include filtering toxins from the blood, producing bile for digestion, synthesizing proteins, and storing glycogen. Liver failure can occur suddenly (acute liver failure) or develop gradually over time (chronic liver failure).

Acute liver failure is often caused by an overdose of certain medications, such as paracetamol, or by viral hepatitis infections. Symptoms can appear rapidly and may include jaundice, abdominal swelling, confusion, and vomiting. Chronic liver failure is typically a consequence of long-term liver damage from conditions like alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis B or C, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The progression of chronic liver failure is often slow, and symptoms may not be apparent until significant liver damage has occurred.

The symptoms of liver dysfunction can vary widely and may include fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), swelling in the legs and abdomen, and confusion or cognitive changes. Diagnosis is usually based on a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to assess liver enzyme levels and function, and imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans.

Treatment for liver failure depends on the underlying cause and whether it is acute or chronic. In acute cases, the focus is on addressing the precipitating factor and supporting the liver's function. For chronic liver failure, management aims to slow the progression of the disease and manage complications. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be the only definitive treatment option. Prevention strategies focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding unnecessary medications, and getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.