What Is Red Palm Liver Disease?

What Is Red Palm Liver Disease?

A red palm is a symptom of cirrhosis, which is the extensive scarring and damage of liver tissue. This symptom usually is evident in the later stages of liver disease. Some other symptoms and complications of cirrhosis are itchy skin, jaundice, ascites, an enlarged liver and portal vein hypertension, states Cedars-Sinai.

The liver is an important organ needed for functions, such as the removal of waste from the blood and the absorption of fats and vitamins. The scarring of healthy liver tissue leads to improper functioning of this organ. Moreover, the scarring of the liver is irreversible.

Although red palms are a sign of liver disease, others are spider veins on the face or chest areas, a reddish complexion, bleeding hemorrhoids and stool that may be red or pale in appearance. Veins located in the intestinal tract may also bleed when they become enlarged, states WebMD.

The main cause of cirrhosis is excessive alcohol consumption. In the early stages of liver disease, there are few symptoms. Liver damage becomes more evident after a period of ten or more years of heavy drinking, notes Cedars-Sinai. Some other causes of cirrhosis are other medical conditions, such as hepatitis, Wilson's disease, obstructed bile ducts and cystic fibrosis.

Treatment options for cirrhosis are dependent on its direct cause but can include lifestyle changes to avoid further liver damage and medications when there is a complication, such as fluid buildup in the body. For some severe cases of liver damage due to cirrhosis, a liver transplant may be an option.