Medical treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) aims to slow disease progression. However, the effective management of symptoms such as fatigue, itchy skin, brain fog, stomach and joint pain and jaundice depends largely on adopting and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, including regular physical exercise.
While symptoms of PBC are not always present at diagnosis, when they do develop, the impact on quality life can be significant.
PBC is a rare autoimmune disease in which the body attacks the small bile ducts within the liver, causing them to break down over time. As the bile builds up in the liver, it damages liver tissue and function, leading to fibrosis and cirrhosis and even liver failure, in the most severe cases. It most commonly affects women aged 35 to 55 years and is thought to be triggered by environmental and genetic factors, although no exact cause has been identified.
The symptom burden of PBC can vary in severity throughout the different stages of the disease. People living with PBC often experience impaired quality of life due to the effects of chronic fatigue and incessant itching, which can lead to self-isolation, emotional distress and depression.
The benefits of exercise for people living with PBC
There are many benefits of incorporating regular exercise into your daily life. In addition to vitamin supplements, a healthy diet low in sodium and saturated fats, high in soluble fiber as well as reduced alcohol consumption, physical exercise will help to manage your PBC symptoms.
By helping to reduce the burden of your symptoms, regular physical activity will improve your quality of life.
Support your liver function. Exercise has been shown to slow the progression of liver disease.
Help maintain your weight. Being active will burn calories and speed up your metabolism.
Boost your mood. Your mental health will benefit, improving symptoms of depression, anxiety and emotional distress. Fatigue has also been shown to be reduced with regular high intensity but low impact exercise. It is also an excellent stress release, which is a trigger of symptom flare ups.
Strengthen your bones and muscles. Nearly 30% of people with PBC also have osteoporosis. Physical exercise will improve your mobility and bone strength.
Encourage social interaction. Going for a walk with a friend combines socializing with exercising.
Choosing the right exercise for you
Walking and swimming are recommended for people living with PBC. A daily 10-minute brisk walk is a good place to start. Other low impact exercises such as yoga or Pilates are good options for promoting mind-body wellness and well-being, which have also been reported to help manage symptoms.
You will need to assess your physical capacity and choose an activity accordingly. The objective is to become fit, not to feel exhausted.
