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Medically Verified By: Dr Ameet Mandot, director, department of hepatology and liver transplant medicine at Gleneagles Hospitals Parel, Mumbai
Liver Health: What Is Liver Frailty, And How Long Can Someone Survive With It? (Photo: Freepik)
Protecting the liver: There are many signs the body shows when it is not able to perform optimally, or if there is something wrong with one or more organs. It is important to pay attention to these signs and check with a doctor at the earliest, lest they turn into something serious and incurable. The liver, for instance, is one of the most important organs that needs care and attention. It is also known to communicate with the body, when it is unable to perform to the best of its abilities. Normally, people think that feeling weak or losing the body's strength is simply a regular part of getting older. But, doctors warn that it could be a sign of 'liver frailty'. With the right care, medical treatment, and lifestyle changes, liver frailty can be managed, allowing the patient to lead a normal, healthy, and fulfilling life. Read on to know more about this condition.
According to Dr Ameet Mandot, director, department of hepatology and liver transplant medicine at Gleneagles Hospitals Parel, Mumbai, liver frailty happens when the body becomes weaker and is not able to handle stress because of long-term liver disease.
"It is common in those with chronic liver conditions like cirrhosis. The liver becomes less efficient and this starts to affect overall strength, energy levels, and muscle function. Those with liver frailty may find it difficult to walk, keep balance, or even carry out daily tasks. Various factors can contribute to liver frailty, such as alcohol overuse, hepatitis infections, fatty liver disease, or long-standing liver infection," the doctor explains, adding that gradually, over a period of time, the body becomes exhausted. It starts to lose muscle and also reacts more slowly than usual.
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"A high protein and a high calorie diet with muscle strengthening exercises are the cornerstone of treating liver frailty," Dr Mandot recommends.
The doctor states that a patient can experience a range of symptoms associated with liver frailty. This can include symptoms like:
"Liver frailty can increase the risk of frequent falls, hospital stays, and complications during surgeries. This is why it is important to spot it early and take steps to manage it well," the expert warns.
"Tackling liver frailty is all about building muscle strength, improving your energy levels, and keeping your liver as healthy as possible. One of the most helpful steps is to start with light exercises regularly. This can include stretching, walking, meditation, or yoga. These activities can help improve your muscle strength and reduce weakness," the doctor recommends, adding that nutrition also plays a key role. Make sure to eat a well-balanced diet that is enriched with the goodness of essential nutrients that can support both muscle and liver health.
"Your diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, lentils, and legumes. Avoid eating oily, fried, spicy, and packaged foods. Drink enough water. Quit smoking and alcohol consumption to protect your liver from severe damage."
According to the health expert, a doctor may recommend certain supplements like vitamin D, calcium, or iron to manage liver frailty, especially if the body is low on such nutrients.
Keep in mind, however, that medications for liver-related issues should only be taken when prescribed by a doctor, without skipping doses. Get enough rest and de-stress by engaging in relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.