CIRRHOSIS OF THE LIVER. (Sclerosis of the Liver)

Category: Digestive Organs

This occurs most often in men from forty to
sixty years old. It is not uncommon in children.

Cause. It is usually due to drinking of alcohol to excess, especially
whisky, brandy, rum or gin. The liver is small and thin; hard, granular,
white bands run through it and press on the liver cells and destroy them.

Symptoms. These are few as long as proper circulation in the heart is
maintained. Fatty cirrhosis is often found in post-mortems. The first
symptoms are the same as those accompanying chronic gastritis, dyspepsia,
They are:--Appetite is poor, nausea, retching and vomiting, especially in
the morning; distress in the region of the stomach, constipation or
diarrhea. These increase and vomiting of blood from the stomach may occur
early and late. Bleeding from the stomach and bowels, etc., cause the
stools to look like tar. Nosebleed and piles are common and profuse;
bleeding may cause severe lack of blood. The epigastric and mammary veins
are enlarged. Ascites (dropsy in the abdomen) usually occurs sooner or
later and may be very marked, and it recurs soon after each tapping. The
feet and genital organs may be oedematous (watery swelling), jaundice is
slight and does not occur until late. During the late stage the patient is
much shrunken, face is hollow, the blood vessels of the nose and cheeks
are dilated, abdomen is greatly distended. Delirium, stupor, coma or
convulsions may occur at any time.

PHYSICIANS' TREATMENT for Cirrhosis of the Liver. It is usually fatal;
sometimes even after temporary improvements. No coffee or alcohol; simple
diet, bitter tonics, keep bowels open, A physician must handle such a
case.

Next: ABSCESS OF THE LIVER. Hepatic Abscess: Suppurative Hepatitis
Previous: ACUTE YELLOW ATROPHY. (Malignant Jaundice)

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CIRRHOSIS OF THE LIVER. (Sclerosis of the Liver)