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First Stage of Biliary Cirrhosis

Primary biliary cirrhosis disease is a slow destruction of the bile ducts in your liver. Bile ducts transport bile, a fluid produced by your liver. Bile helps to rid your body of cholesterol and toxic metals. When bile ducts are damaged, it allows a buildup of toxins in your liver which leads to liver damage and cirrhosis. Biliary cirrhosis has two stages, early stage and late stage.

  1. Causes

    • The cause of biliary cirrhosis is unknown, but genetics and environment might be factors. The disorder is in a class of autoimmune diseases in which the body attacks its own healthy tissues, in this case the bile ducts.

    Symptoms

    • Early stage biliary cirrhosis symptoms include fatigue, itching and dry mouth and eyes. Energy levels are normally best in the morning and fatigue tends to set in later in the day. Rest does not improve the tired sluggish feeling. Itching is a common symptom and is most prevalent over the arms, back and legs. The itching may be worse at night disrupting sleep and causing fatigue to worsen. Inflammation occurs in the glands that secrete moisture in your eyes and mouth. This inflammation results in decreased production of saliva and tears resulting in dry mouth and eyes which can cause sensitivity to light and difficulty swallowing.

    Diagnosis

    • Early stage biliary cirrhosis is normally found during routine blood or liver tests. Liver function tests check enzymes in your liver for indications of liver damage. Ultrasound imaging will create images of the liver and bile ducts and show if any blockage or damage is present. In a liver biopsy, a small tissue sample is taken from your liver and tested to confirm diagnosis or to determine what stage the disease is in. An MRE is a magnetic resonance elastography which combines MRI imaging with low frequency sound waves. This procedure will show images of the liver tissues and stiffness within the liver confirming cirrhosis.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for early stage biliary cirrhosis will focus on slowing the progression of the disease and relieving symptoms. Ursodeoxycholic acid is normally the first line of defense in treating early stage biliary cirrhosis. The medication affects the body's bile acid and reduces inflammation in the bile ducts. Cholestyramine and colestipol may provide relief from the constant itching. Rifampin also provides relief from itching and is prescribed for people not able to tolerate cholestyramine and colestipol. The drawback is rifampin is slow acting and may take as long as a month to take effect. Opioid antagonists also relieve itching, but the medication has to be given intravenously. These medications have side effects so it is best to discuss with your doctor the best treatment for you.

    Home Remedies

    • By taking care of your health, you may be able to slow the progression of the disease. Eat healthy and reduce sodium in your diet as sodium tends to swell tissues. Avoid alcohol as it speeds damage to the liver. To reduce itching use cold wet compresses and take oatmeal baths.

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