How To Treat Liver Failure

Screening And Treating Infections

Patients dealing with liver failure have a compromised immune system and have an increased risk of contracting a serious illness as a result. Contracting an illness or infection during this compromised state increases the risk the body will not be able to fight the bacteria invading it and if not caught quickly, such illnesses and infections can be fatal. As such, doctors will typically attempt to reduce this risk by screening and treating infections. Patients will periodically provide samples of their blood and urine to be tested for various infections that might possibly cause complications. If an infection is found, it will be promptly treated with the proper medication.

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Relieve Pressure From Excess Fluid

Individuals with acute liver failure often suffer from a secondary illness called cerebral edema. Cerebral edema is swelling in the brain caused by an excess in the fluid surrounding it. If not treated promptly, this swelling can cause brain damage and death. Pressure on the brain can be found through the use of a non-invasive diagnostic testing tool called a transcranial doppler. To relieve pressure from excess fluid, physicians may prescribe medications to reduce the amount of fluid surrounding the brain. Typical treatment for cerebral edema involves the use of diuretics to reduce the production of fluid throughout the body. Hypertonic saline may also be used. Doctors will work with patients to determine the best option for each case.

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