Portal hypertension is one of the most life threatening and advanced liver diseases. This condition arises as a complication of underlying liver condition. It’s not a stage of the disease, rather a consequence of impaired blood flow within the liver.
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What is portal hypertension?
High blood pressure in the portal vein and its smaller branch veins, collectively known as portal venous system and leading to portal hypertension. Through the portal vein, the portal venous system transfers blood to your liver from your intestines, stomach, pancreas, and veins. After the blood has been filtered by your liver, it is returned to your heart for systemic circulation.
The portal venous system experiences elevated blood pressure when there is an obstruction or slowdown in the blood flow through the portal vein. By rerouting blood flow into other veins, your body relieves this pressure. These veins enlarge due to the increased blood flow, which also causes the walls to stretch and weaken. They can break and bleed, and they might leak fluids into your abdomen .Portal hypertension and liver disease have a direct connection, liver diseases can quickly develop into portal hypertension.
What is liver organ and what is its function?
The second largest organ in the body, the liver is situated in the right side of the abdominal cavity, above the kidneys and intestines, and beneath the diaphragm. The body benefits the liver in numerous ways.
The liver:
– Transforms chemicals from our medications and nutrients from the food we eat into forms that the rest of our bodies can use.
– Aids in clearing the bloodstream of toxins and dangerous chemicals
– Produces bile, which has chemicals that help in our food digestion.
– Help in cholesterol and blood sugar regulation.
– Produces the proteins necessary for a healthy blood clot.
What are the causes of portal hypertension?
Several liver conditions can trigger portal hypertension. Here are the most common causes:
Cirrhosis:
This is the leading cause, often resulting in liver damage due to factors like hepatitis B or C, excessive alcohol consumption, or non alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD). Cirrhosis causes significant scarring, obstructing blood flow through the liver.
Blood clots:
Blood flow into, through, or out of the liver can be prevented by thrombosis in the portal venous system. Numerous factors including hereditary illness can be blamed.
Granulomas of the liver:
Granulomas are the accumulation of immune cells that come with a variety of infections and inflammatory conditions. As benign tumors, they can block the portal venous system and frequently occur before fibrosis, or scarring, which develops later.
What are the common signs of portal hypertension?
Before any complications, you may nearly not experience any symptoms related to portal hypertension. In about 90% of the people with liver cirrhosis it is common to have portal hypertension. Here are some of the symptoms caused by portal hypertension:
– Blood in the vomit
– Spotting of blood in bowels
– Confused state of mind
– Visible swelling of the feet and hands
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, reach out to the portal hypertension treatment in Coimbatore to seek immediate treatment.
What are the treatment options for portal hypertension?
The primary focus of portal hypertension treatment is to address the underlying liver disease. Here is an overview of the treatment options:
Treating the underlying cause:
Medications can help manage viral hepatitis. Lifestyle modifications, like dietary changes and weight loss, are crucial for NAFLD. In some cases, surgery or other procedures might be necessary. Finding the underlying condition is important to find a cure for portal hypertension.
Medications for reducing portal pressure:
Certain prescription medications can help lower blood pressure within the portal vein system.
Endoscopic therapy:
Techniques like band ligation or sclerotherapy can be used to address variceal bleeding by shrinking or closing enlarged veins.
Liver transplant:
In severe cases with advanced liver damage, a liver transplant might be the best option.
What are the best tips to maintain your health with portal hypertension?
In people with portal hypertension managing the underlying liver disease and following your doctor’s recommendation can significantly improve your quality of life. Here are some tips:
Maintain a healthy diet:
A balanced, low-sodium diet can help reduce fluid buildup and improve overall health.
Limit alcohol consumption:
Quitting or limiting alcohol is important, especially if your liver disease is alcohol-related.
Take medications as prescribed:
Stick to your medication regimen is essential for controlling the condition and preventing complications of portal hypertension.
Seek regular follow-up with your doctor:
Regular checkups are vital to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Reduce intake of salt:
Regular physical activity, within your doctor’s guidelines, can improve overall health and well-being.
What stage of liver disease is portal hypertension?
Portal hypertension is a complication of an underlying liver condition. It is usually considered as the advanced last stage liver disease.
Important Takeaway:
Treating portal hypertension can feel like fighting fires because it affects so many various organs. The fact that liver disease can impact the veins in your stomach, esophagus, lungs, and kidneys may surprise you. Early detection can help manage portal hypertension effectively without any major complications. Consult the best liver hospital in Coimbatore if you are looking to get your liver health checked.
