Cardiac cirrhosis is a liver condition caused by chronic heart failure. In patients with this condition, the liver becomes damaged as a result of interruptions in blood flow and fibrous deposits begin to develop. Although it is known as cirrhosis, it does not necessarily meet the diagnostic criteria for cirrhosis, and it is important to note that this condition is not caused by alcohol abuse. People with cardiac cirrhosis can be treated in a number of ways, sometimes in a hospital and sometimes on an outpatient basis, depending on the nature of the patient's condition.
In people with heart failure, the entire cardiovascular system is affected and this can lead to a cascade of symptoms, including congestive liver disease, where pressure increases in the blood vessels within the liver, leading to congestion. This damages liver cells, creating a distinctive mottled appearance at the cellular level. Liver cells begin to die, fibrous deposits develop, and the patient may develop cardiac cirrhosis.
Ideally, this condition should be prevented before starting treatment for heart conditions. People with heart failure can be monitored for signs of complications, and heart failure treatment can relieve stress on internal organs. Treatments may include medications and surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the heart failure and the patient's general level of health. If early liver damage has occurred, treatment should avoid increases in severity.
Some patients do not experience health problems as a result of cardiac cirrhosis, and as long as the underlying heart condition is controlled, they may not need additional care. Other treatment options include the use of diuretics to lower blood pressure and volume, reduce stress on the liver, and surgery. Diet and exercise regimens can also help improve the patient's condition and can be carried out under the guidance of a general practitioner, physical therapist, or nutritionist.
This condition is more common in older adults, as they are at higher risk for heart failure. Liver dysfunction can become a serious medical problem, as liver failure is less able to metabolize chemical compounds. The liver plays an important role in the metabolism of a number of medications, and people with liver damage may be less tolerant of some medications as well as being less able to safely consume alcohol. People with cardiac cirrhosis should be closely monitored for signs of liver dysfunction and their treatment should be adjusted accordingly if problems arise.