From the Research
Alterations in bowel habits can indeed be a symptom of liver cirrhosis, rather than a cause. When liver cirrhosis develops, it can lead to portal hypertension, which may cause digestive symptoms including diarrhea or constipation, as noted in a study on changes of intestinal functions in liver cirrhosis 1. Additionally, cirrhosis affects bile production and flow, which can alter stool consistency and frequency. The relationship between bowel habits and liver cirrhosis is actually reversed, with cirrhosis potentially causing changes in bowel habits as a symptom rather than being caused by them. Some key points to consider include:
- Liver cirrhosis is primarily caused by chronic liver damage from conditions such as alcoholic liver disease, chronic hepatitis B or C infections, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, certain genetic disorders, and prolonged exposure to certain medications or toxins.
- The development of cirrhosis can lead to various complications, including portal hypertension, which may cause digestive symptoms.
- Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, can be a symptom of liver cirrhosis, as well as other symptoms like jaundice, abdominal swelling, fatigue, or easy bruising.
- If experiencing persistent changes in bowel habits along with other symptoms, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation, as these could be signs of liver disease rather than causes of it, as discussed in a review on the management of lifestyle factors in individuals with cirrhosis 2. It's also worth noting that lifestyle-related factors, such as malnutrition, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle, can increase the risk of progression of the disease, and correcting these factors can be an attractive approach to add to etiological and pharmacological therapy in patients with cirrhosis, as mentioned in a study on the comparison of the effects of probiotics, rifaximin, and lactulose in the treatment of minimal hepatic encephalopathy and gut microbiota 3. However, the most critical aspect is to prioritize the management of the underlying cause of liver cirrhosis and address any related complications, as outlined in a review on liver disease: cirrhosis 4.