Why can the liver fail?

There are various reasons why the liver can fail. Some common causes of liver failure include:

Cirrhosis: This is a chronic liver disease that occurs when healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue. Cirrhosis is the most common cause of liver failure. It can be caused by alcohol abuse, chronic viral hepatitis (such as hepatitis B and C), fatty liver disease, autoimmune disorders, and certain genetic conditions.

Alcoholic liver disease: Excessive alcohol consumption can damage liver cells and lead to alcoholic liver disease. This can range from mild inflammation to severe scarring (cirrhosis) and liver failure.

Viral hepatitis: Hepatitis viruses, such as hepatitis B and C, can cause inflammation and damage to the liver. If left untreated, chronic hepatitis can progress to liver failure.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): This is a condition in which fat builds up in the liver. NAFLD can range from a mild condition with no symptoms to a more severe form called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can cause liver damage and inflammation.

Drug-induced liver injury: Certain medications, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription drugs, herbal supplements, and recreational drugs, can cause liver damage. This can range from mild and temporary liver injury to severe and life-threatening liver failure.

Autoimmune hepatitis: This is a chronic condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the liver cells, causing inflammation and damage.

Wilson's disease: This is a genetic disorder in which the body accumulates too much copper. The excess copper can deposit in the liver and cause liver damage and failure.

Hemochromatosis: This is a genetic disorder in which the body absorbs too much iron. The excess iron can accumulate in the liver and cause liver damage and failure.

Budd-Chiari syndrome: This is a rare condition in which the veins that drain blood from the liver become blocked. This can lead to liver congestion, inflammation, and eventually liver failure.