People living with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) often experience flare ups, which are periods in which symptoms intensify or new symptoms appear. Symptoms can be challenging to manage, but being aware of common triggers can help reduce their frequency and severity.
PBC is a progressive and chronic autoimmune liver disease that has no cure, in which the small bile ducts in the liver are attacked and progressively break down. The bile then builds up in the liver, damaging its tissue and function, leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis and potentially, liver failure.
No specific cause for PBC has yet been identified, but genetic and environmental risk factors are thought to contribute to its occurrence. Additionally, 90% of people with PBC are women, who are often diagnosed between the ages of 35 and 55, although there are cases of PBC in younger and older patients. Treatment is available to help slow disease progression and manage symptoms. A healthy diet and lifestyle is also key to managing symptoms and flare-ups.
At diagnosis, people with PBC often have no symptoms, but they do develop over time and may significantly affect quality of life. The severity of symptoms vary, and they most commonly include fatigue and pruritus (itchy skin), as well as brain fog, joint pain, abdominal pain, eye dryness and jaundice.
Learn more about PBC signs and symptoms
Flare up triggers
Most people living with PBC report experiencing flare ups. As well as being triggered in pregnancy, factors such as stress, fatigue, changes in routine, changes in medication or dietary factors that put pressure on the liver can potentially be a cause.
Tips for coping with flare ups
Early detection and proactive management of flare ups can reduce their severity. Warning signs may include increased fatigue and itchiness, or changes in your liver function tests. Regular checkups with your doctor will monitor your liver function and overall health.
If you feel that you are experiencing a flare up, you’ll need to immediately contact your healthcare team to adjust your treatment plan accordingly. Over time, you will learn to recognize the onset of a flare up and you will have your action plan to activate immediately.
How to avoid them
By effectively managing stress and maintaining a balanced diet that supports healthy liver function will help prevent flare ups. Mind-body wellness programs that focus on yoga, meditation, breathwork and mindfulness have been proven to help people living with PBC to maintain their quality of life. Additionally, opting a low salt, low sugar, high fiber diet, limiting alcohol and introducing some gentle but regular exercise will benefit your liver function.
