CIRRHOSIS OF THE LIVER. (Sclerosis of the Liver)

Categories: 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 cir hosis 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.