Overview
Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue, which gradually impairs liver function. It can result from long-term damage due to conditions such as chronic hepatitis, alcohol abuse, or fatty liver disease.
Symptoms
Fatigue and weakness Loss of appetite and weight loss Nausea and vomiting Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen (edema and ascites) Easy bruising or bleeding Itchy skin Confusion or memory problems in advanced stages (hepatic encephalopathy)
Causes
Chronic alcohol abuse Chronic hepatitis B or C infection Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) Autoimmune hepatitis Inherited liver diseases (e.g., hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease) Long-term exposure to toxins or medications that damage the liver
Diagnosis
Physical examination (checking for jaundice, swelling, and liver enlargement) Blood tests to assess liver function and detect underlying causes Imaging tests (ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI) Liver biopsy to confirm the extent of scarring
Treatment
Treating the underlying cause (e.g., antiviral medications for hepatitis, lifestyle changes for fatty liver) Medications to manage symptoms (diuretics for fluid retention, lactulose for encephalopathy) Procedures to remove fluid accumulation (paracentesis) Liver transplantation in advanced or end-stage cirrhosis
Complications
Portal hypertension and varices (enlarged veins that can bleed) Fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites) Infections due to reduced immunity Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) Hepatic encephalopathy (confusion and cognitive impairment)
Prevention
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption Maintain a healthy weight and diet Vaccination and precautions against hepatitis B Regular monitoring and management of liver diseases Avoid exposure to liver toxins or unnecessary medications