Priyanka Tiwari
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Manoj Kumar, the veteran actor known for his roles in patriotic films like Purab Aur Paschim and Kranti, passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. While heart complications were the primary cause of death, his medical certificate also listed decompensated liver cirrhosis as a contributing factor.
What is Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis?
According to Dr. Vikas Jindal, Consultant at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, decompensated liver cirrhosis represents an advanced stage of chronic liver disease. At this stage, the liver is so damaged that it can no longer perform its normal functions. This condition usually stems from long-term issues such as chronic hepatitis, excessive alcohol intake, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Unlike compensated cirrhosis, where the liver still manages to function, decompensation means that it has failed, resulting in severe health complications.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of decompensated liver cirrhosis are more severe than in earlier stages:
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Severe fatigue and weakness
Insomnia and occasional fainting
Easy bruising and bleeding
Leg swelling (edema)
Vomiting blood due to ruptured esophageal varices
These symptoms reflect the liver’s failure to cleanse toxins, regulate body fluids, and produce necessary proteins.
Serious Risks and Complications
Decompensated cirrhosis can lead to life-threatening outcomes, including:
Complete liver failure
Abdominal infections (spontaneous bacterial peritonitis)
Kidney dysfunction (hepatorenal syndrome)
Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
The risk of mortality increases significantly at this stage, particularly if the disease is not managed promptly. Continued alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and untreated viral hepatitis can make the condition worse.
Treatment Options for Decompensated Cirrhosis
Although the condition is irreversible, medical care can help manage symptoms and improve life quality. Treatment options include:
Medications: Diuretics for fluid retention, lactulose to prevent encephalopathy, and antibiotics for infections.
Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding alcohol, eating a low-salt and high-protein diet, and maintaining proper nutrition.
Liver Transplant: In severe cases, this may be the only viable treatment and is considered based on the patient’s overall health status.
Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and supportive care are critical to improving survival outcomes.
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