What is Cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is a late-stage liver condition where healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue (fibrosis), progressively impairing the liver's ability to function properly.
Common Causes
- Chronic alcohol abuse
- Viral hepatitis (B and C)
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Inherited disorders
Key Symptoms
Early Stage:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
Advanced Stage:
- Yellowing of skin (jaundice)
- Fluid accumulation in abdomen (ascites)
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Confusion or difficulty thinking (hepatic encephalopathy)
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Blood tests
- Imaging tests (ultrasound, CT, or MRI)
- Liver biopsy
Treatment Options
Lifestyle Changes
- Stopping alcohol consumption
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Regular exercise when possible
- Weight management
Medical Management
- Medications for underlying causes
- Treatment of complications
- Regular monitoring
- Vaccination against hepatitis
Advanced Care
- Liver transplant evaluation when necessary
- Management of portal hypertension
- Treatment of varices
Prevention
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Practice safe sex
- Avoid sharing needles
- Maintain healthy weight
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis
Living with Cirrhosis
- Regular medical check-ups
- Medication compliance
- Avoiding certain medications
- Following dietary restrictions
- Monitoring for complications