Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic, progressive liver disease that causes damage to the small bile ducts within the liver. As the disease progresses, the damage can lead to liver failure, cirrhosis, and other serious complications. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of PBC so that it can be diagnosed and treated early, before irreversible damage occurs.
In its early stages, PBC may not cause any noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, however, symptoms may begin to appear. These symptoms can vary from person to person, and may be mild at first, but they can become more severe as the disease advances. It is important to be aware of the common symptoms of PBC so that you can seek medical attention and receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
1. Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of PBC is fatigue. Many people with PBC experience extreme tiredness that does not improve with rest. This fatigue can be debilitating, making it difficult to carry out everyday activities. It is important to pay attention to persistent fatigue and discuss it with your doctor, as it could be a sign of PBC.
It is not fully understood why people with PBC experience fatigue, but it may be related to the liver damage caused by the disease. As the liver becomes increasingly damaged, it may not be able to function properly, leading to fatigue and other symptoms.
2. Itching
Another common symptom of PBC is itching, also known as pruritus. This itching is typically most severe on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet, but it can occur anywhere on the body. The itching can range from mild to severe, and it can be very distressing for people with PBC.
The exact cause of itching in PBC is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the buildup of bile acids in the bloodstream. Itching can be one of the earliest symptoms of PBC, so it is important to bring it to the attention of your doctor if you experience persistent and unexplained itching.
3. Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition in which the skin and whites of the eyes become yellowed. It occurs when there is a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream, which can happen when the liver is not functioning properly. Jaundice is a more advanced symptom of PBC, and it may indicate that the disease has progressed to a more serious stage.
It is important to seek medical attention if you develop jaundice, as it could be a sign of liver damage or other complications related to PBC. Your doctor can perform tests to determine the cause of the jaundice and develop a treatment plan to address it.
4. Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is another possible symptom of PBC. This pain can be located in the upper right side of the abdomen, where the liver is located. It may be a dull ache or a sharp, stabbing pain. Abdominal pain can be caused by a variety of factors, so it is important to discuss it with your doctor to determine the underlying cause.
Abdominal pain in PBC may be related to inflammation or enlargement of the liver, or it may be caused by other complications of the disease. Your doctor can conduct tests to determine the cause of the pain and develop a plan to manage it.
5. Dry Eyes and Mouth
Dry eyes and mouth are common symptoms of PBC. This dryness may be caused by a condition known as Sjögren’s syndrome, which can occur in people with PBC. Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that affects the moisture-producing glands, leading to dryness in the eyes, mouth, and other areas of the body.
If you experience dryness in your eyes or mouth, it is important to discuss it with your doctor, as it could be a sign of PBC or another underlying condition. Your doctor can conduct tests to determine the cause of the dryness and develop a plan to manage it.
6. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. People with PBC have an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, which may be related to the effects of the disease on the body’s ability to absorb calcium and vitamin D.
It is important to be aware of the symptoms of osteoporosis, including bone pain, loss of height, and fractures. If you have PBC, your doctor may recommend bone density testing to assess your risk of osteoporosis and develop a plan to manage it.
7. Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of primary biliary cholangitis is fatigue. Many people with this condition experience extreme tiredness that does not improve with rest. This fatigue can be debilitating, making it difficult to carry out everyday activities. It is important to pay attention to persistent fatigue and discuss it with your doctor, as it could be a sign of PBC.
It is not fully understood why people with PBC experience fatigue, but it may be related to the liver damage caused by the disease. As the liver becomes increasingly damaged, it may not be able to function properly, leading to fatigue and other symptoms.
8. Swelling in the Legs and Ankles
People with PBC may experience swelling in the legs and ankles, which is known as edema. This swelling can be caused by a buildup of fluid in the body, which may occur as a result of liver damage and changes in blood flow. Swelling can be uncomfortable and may make it difficult to move around, so it is important to discuss it with your doctor if you experience edema.
Your doctor can conduct tests to determine the cause of the swelling and develop a plan to manage it, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or other interventions.
9. Weight Loss
Unintentional weight loss can be a symptom of PBC, particularly in the later stages of the disease. As the liver becomes increasingly damaged, it may not be able to properly process nutrients from food, leading to weight loss. If you experience significant and unexplained weight loss, it is important to discuss it with your doctor, as it could be a sign of PBC or other underlying conditions.
Your doctor can conduct tests to determine the cause of the weight loss and develop a plan to address it, which may include changes to your diet, medications, or other interventions.
10. Difficulty Concentrating
People with PBC may experience difficulty concentrating and cognitive problems. This may be related to the effects of the disease on the brain, as well as the fatigue and other symptoms that can make it difficult to focus and think clearly. If you experience cognitive problems, it is important to discuss them with your doctor.
Your doctor can assess your cognitive function and develop a plan to manage any difficulties you may be experiencing. This may include lifestyle changes, medications, or other interventions to improve your cognitive function.
