How Fast Does Primary Biliary Cholangitis Progress?

Primary Biliary Cholangitis Usually Progresses Slowly

Primary biliary cholangitis occurs in four separate stages:

• Stage I – During stage I, medium-sized bile ducts become inflamed and mild damage occurs. 

• Stage II – Stage II involves smaller bile ducts, which can become blocked by inflamed tissue. 

• Stage III – By stage III, the liver starts to develop scar tissue. 

• Stage IV – With stage IV, permanent damage to the liver is present.

While primary biliary cholangitis is a progressive condition, it can take 15 years or more for permanent liver damage to occur. For most people, symptoms take quite a long time to occur, usually five years or longer.

Once symptoms are present, the long-term outlook is usually ten years. At this point, a person may receive a liver transplant if they are deemed healthy enough for the procedure. If the surgery is a success, the survival rate for the succeeding ten years is 65%.

Tips for Managing Primary Biliary Cholangitis

Doctors can prescribe a range of medications to treat primary biliary cholangitis and its health effects. Some medications reduce inflammation in the liver or improve bile production, while others alleviate symptoms like itchiness and fatigue.

People with primary biliary cholangitis can also benefit from healthy lifestyle choices, including:

• Eating a wholesome diet
• Reducing the intake of processed foods
• Avoiding drugs (including cigarettes) and alcohol

With a medication regimen and healthy living plan, people with primary biliary cholangitis can go on to live long, fulfilling lives.