What happens when your liver fails?

When the liver fails, it can lead to several serious health problems and complications, including:

- Jaundice: This is a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to the buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells are broken down.

- Ascites: This refers to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, which can cause swelling and discomfort.

- Hepatic encephalopathy: This condition occurs when toxins that are normally processed by the liver build up in the bloodstream and affect brain function. Symptoms can include confusion, drowsiness, disorientation, and even coma in severe cases.

- Variceal bleeding: The portal vein, which carries blood from the intestines and spleen to the liver, can become blocked when the liver fails, causing increased pressure in the portal system. This can lead to the development of varicose veins in the esophagus and stomach, which can rupture and bleed, leading to internal bleeding.

- Coagulopathy: Liver failure can affect the production of clotting factors, leading to impaired blood clotting and an increased risk of bleeding.

- Hepatorenal syndrome: This condition refers to the combination of kidney failure and liver failure. It occurs when the liver is unable to produce the substances needed for kidney function, leading to reduced blood flow to the kidneys and ultimately kidney failure.

- Malnutrition and weight loss: Liver failure can interfere with the digestion and absorption of nutrients, leading to malnutrition and weight loss.

- Increased susceptibility to infections: The liver plays a crucial role in clearing bacteria and toxins from the blood. When the liver fails, the body becomes more susceptible to infections.

- Liver cancer: Liver failure can increase the risk of developing liver cancer.

In severe cases, liver failure can be life-threatening and may require a liver transplant to restore liver function.