Autoimmune conditions result from a faulty immune system response that mistakes healthy tissues for foreign invaders. With primary biliary cholangitis, the liver and bile ducts are constantly inflamed, which can result in permanent damage.
Because the liver plays such a crucial role in bodily function, as the organ is responsible for filtering out toxins, the health effects can be widespread. The following are some common effects associated with primary biliary cholangitis.
Symptoms of primary biliary cholangitis vary according to how far along the condition has progressed:
For many people, primary biliary cholangitis begins with itchiness and extreme tiredness. It is not entirely clear why the disorder causes itching, but the symptom may result from accumulating bile in the liver eventually making its way to the skin. As for fatigue, this effect can be caused by problems with neurotransmitters, as some neurotransmitters (aka chemical messengers) affect energy levels.
As this autoimmune disorder progresses and causes lasting damage to the liver, the following effects may occur:
Over time, primary biliary cholangitis can lead to permanent liver damage, and even liver failure. As a progressive autoimmune disorder, primary biliary cholangitis cannot be cured. However, doctors can use medication to slow the advancement of the condition. If there is a risk of liver failure, doctors may also recommend a transplant procedure.