Acute liver failure

Overview

Acute liver failure develops over days to weeks in someone without prior liver disease.

Acetaminophen overdose is the top cause in the U.S.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Yellow skin with confusion
• Bleeding
• Very sleepy

Less common

• Nausea

Look up a symptom: New confusion or not acting like themselves · Vomiting · Yellow skin or eyes

When to get medical care

Causes

Medicines, viruses.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Liver tests:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Call 911
• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Use acetaminophen only as directed
• Check combination medicine labels

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist or hepatologist (liver doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• American Liver Foundation: Helpline and support groups for liver disease.
• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• People who drink heavily: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Some recover; some need a transplant.

Some recover; transplant saves many others.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Acute liver failure