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What Contributes to Cirrhosis of the Liver? ,
man suffering from pain in lower right abdomen on sofa at home

Cirrhosis is a serious and progressive condition characterized by the scarring of the liver tissue, leading to impaired liver function. Several factors contribute to the development of cirrhosis, often resulting from chronic damage and inflammation over an extended period. Understanding these contributors is essential in preventing and managing this condition, which includes the following factors.

1. Chronic Alcohol Consumption

Excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption is one of the leading causes of cirrhosis. Alcohol-induced liver disease occurs due to the toxic effects of alcohol on liver cells, leading to inflammation, liver cell death, and the accumulation of scar tissue.

2. Chronic Viral Hepatitis

Chronic infection with hepatitis viruses, especially hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV), significantly increases the risk of developing cirrhosis. These viruses cause ongoing inflammation and damage to liver cells, leading to the formation of scar tissue over time.

3. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)

NAFLD and its progressive form, NASH, are conditions characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver unrelated to alcohol consumption. NASH, especially when left untreated, can lead to inflammation, liver cell injury, and eventual scarring, contributing to cirrhosis.

4. Chronic Biliary Obstruction or Diseases

Conditions that obstruct bile flow or cause chronic inflammation in the bile ducts, such as primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) or primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), can lead to liver damage and the development of cirrhosis.

5. Autoimmune Liver Diseases

Autoimmune liver diseases, such as autoimmune hepatitis and primary autoimmune cirrhosis, involve the body’s immune system attacking liver cells, leading to ongoing inflammation and scarring.

6. Genetic Disorders

Certain genetic conditions, such as hemochromatosis (excessive iron accumulation in the liver), Wilson’s disease (excessive copper accumulation) and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, can predispose individuals to liver damage and cirrhosis.

7. Chronic Exposure to Toxins and Medications

Long-term exposure to certain toxins, chemicals, and medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements, can contribute to liver damage and scarring.

8. Other Factors

Other factors that can contribute to cirrhosis include obesity, poorly managed diabetes, metabolic disorders, long-term exposure to environmental toxins and certain metabolic conditions affecting the liver’s ability to process substances.

Prevention and Management

Preventing cirrhosis involves addressing underlying risk factors and adopting a healthy lifestyle. This includes:

  • Limiting alcohol consumption or abstaining entirely if diagnosed with alcohol-induced liver disease.
  • Vaccination against hepatitis B and screening for hepatitis C to prevent viral hepatitis.
  • Managing underlying conditions like obesity, diabetes, and metabolic disorders.
  • Avoiding high-risk behaviors and toxins that can damage the liver.
  • Seeking medical advice and monitoring for early detection and intervention in case of liver diseases.

Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in slowing down the progression of cirrhosis and preventing complications. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, addressing underlying causes and, in some cases, considering liver transplantation for advanced cirrhosis cases. Regular medical follow-ups and adherence to treatment plans are essential for individuals with cirrhosis to improve their quality of life and manage the condition effectively.

If you have been diagnosed with liver cirrhosis, you need the expert advice of an experienced liver specialist. David P Yamini, MD, is a highly respected and skilled gastroenterologist who specializes in liver disease. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Yamini, call his office in Santa Monica or Beverly Hills, CA, to book your appointment.

Posted on behalf of David P. Yamini, MD

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Our Patient Reviews

David P. Yamini, MD

4.9 / 5.0

Based on 58 reviews

Nicole R.

Scheduling was extremely easy with Dr. Yamini's staff, I scheduled my Tuesday appointment on Monday afternoon. The staff and Dr. Yamini were courteous and straightforward - even with new patient paperwork I was out the door within an hour!

Bill C.

Dr. Yamini definitely is a great doctor who is very thorough and detail oriented with his diagnosis. He is very passionate about what he does and was able to answer any question or concern. He took his time before my appointment to look through all the documentation to know exactly what was going on. He definitely was able to put me at ease even though I was very worried. I am very satisfied with his services. Thanks!

Mario O.

He was very gentle about my situation yet did not fail to emphasize about the seriousness that could arise from gastrointestinal problems. Few and far between are as professional and caring as Dr. Yamini and his staff. I was 20 minutes late on Friday evening & they still had me in a room in 5 minutes as a new patient.

Lisa P.

I can’t say enough great things about my first impression of this doctor and his amazing staff! They got me right in and set me up for everything needed. I’ve been looking for the right GI doctor for years having had a very negative experience with another doctor years ago. Dr. Yamini is not only professional, knowledgeable, respectful, and experienced... this guy is “cool” and nice too! His front desk person, Toni was amazing! She was kind, bright, efficient, patient, and positive! ??

Kendall S.

Makes talking about uncomfortable subjects a breeze. Competent and honest: doesn't sell vitamin cleanses and his own probiotics or anything like that. Makes sure your symptoms aren't half-fixed but fully fixed. Gets to the heart of the issue quickly. Good listener. Very sweet receptionist. I hate receiving many phone calls, and she's persistent about making sure you set up an appointment; it was stressing me out. I found the her much easier to connect with once she gave me her cell and said to text.

Babak E.

Thank you Dr. Yamini and Tony. When it comes to patient care and professionalism, I have never received this much care and attention from a physician and the staff. I was able to talk to Dr. Yamini for good period of time allowing me to ask all my questions. Tony you are so cute thank you for scheduling me in last minute.

Kyle K.

I highly recommend Dr. Yamini. He's very personable and actually listens to your issues and concerns, then recommends a reasonable course of action. He was able to properly diagnose my symptoms and get me healthy again. Also his admin Toni is great too, she will help select a facility and verify that your insurance will fully cover. She's really nice and trustworthy as well!

Eric W.

Thorough doctor who cares about his patients, and very meticulous about the details of your ailment. Clearly very knowledgeable and skilled. No wait time for appointments, and the nurse (Toni) is very friendly and follows up appropriately. One of the best doctor experiences I've had and I'd recommend it to anyone.

Office Hours

Monday

8:30AM - 5:30PM

Tuesday

8:30AM - 5:30PM

Wednesday

8:30AM - 5:30PM

Thursday

8:30AM - 5:30PM

Friday

8:30AM - 5:30PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

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Contact Us

Santa Monica Office

Address
2001 Santa Monica Blvd #1286
Santa Monica, CA 90404

Phone
(310) 285-3005

FAX
(310) 935-1560

Beverly Hills Office

Address
8920 Wilshire Blvd, Ste. 310
Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Phone
(310) 953-3550

FAX
(310) 935-1560