Patient's question:
Previously, I frequently used a large amount of drugs. Recently, I went to the hospital for a health check-up and found that my liver and spleen were enlarged. I usually feel weak all over, have a sallow complexion, have less urine, swelling in my lower limbs, and bleeding gums. The doctor said I have cirrhosis of the liver and prescribed some medication for me. Now, I'm still very worried. Will this continue to worsen? Will it become more serious?Doctor's answer:
The main pathogenesis of cirrhosis is progressive fibrosis. In normal liver, collagen (types I and III) in the interstitial space primarily arranges around the portal areas and central veins. During cirrhosis, types I and III collagen significantly increases and accumulates throughout the lobules. The continuous deposition of collagen in the sinusoidal spaces leads to a marked increase in endothelial fenestration, gradually transforming liver sinusoids into capillaries, thereby impairing the exchange of substances between blood and hepatocytes. Cirrhosis is a disease that is difficult to fully cure. Patients should maintain a positive mindset and face it with optimism, as this can boost their confidence in combating cirrhosis and increase their belief in recovery.