Understanding Cirrhosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis is a late-stage liver condition in which healthy liver tissue is gradually replaced with scar tissue, or fibrosis. This scarring interferes with the liver’s ability to function properly. The liver plays a critical role in filtering toxins, digesting food, and producing essential proteins. As cirrhosis progresses, it can lead to serious complications and, in severe cases, liver failure.

What Causes Cirrhosis and Who is at Risk?

Cirrhosis can result from many forms of chronic liver disease and long-term liver damage. The most common causes and risk factors include:

– Chronic hepatitis B or C infection

– Long-term alcohol abuse

– Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)

– Autoimmune hepatitis

– Inherited liver diseases (such as hemochromatosis or Wilson’s disease)

– Blocked bile ducts or chronic bile duct disease (primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis)

Common Symptoms of Cirrhosis

In the early stages, cirrhosis may cause few or no symptoms. As liver damage progresses, the following symptoms may develop:

– Fatigue and weakness

– Loss of appetite and weight loss

– Nausea or vomiting

– Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen (edema or ascites)

– Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

– Easy bruising or bleeding

– Itchy skin

– Confusion or difficulty thinking (hepatic encephalopathy)

How is Cirrhosis Diagnosed?

Cirrhosis is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, lab tests, and imaging. Your provider may recommend:

– Blood tests to evaluate liver function and check for liver enzyme levels

– Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to view liver structure and detect complications

– Liver elastography (FibroScan) to measure liver stiffness

– Liver biopsy to confirm the extent of scarring in certain cases

Managing and Treating Cirrhosis

While the scarring caused by cirrhosis is not reversible, treatment can slow its progression and manage complications. Management includes:

– Treating the underlying cause (such as controlling hepatitis or managing alcohol use)

– Medications to control symptoms and prevent further damage

– Monitoring for complications like varices, ascites, or hepatic encephalopathy

– Regular screenings for liver cancer

– Following a liver-friendly diet and avoiding alcohol

– Liver transplant evaluation in advanced cases

Long-Term Outlook and Complications

Cirrhosis can lead to life-threatening complications if not properly managed, including liver failure, internal bleeding, infections, and liver cancer. However, with early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and lifestyle changes, many individuals can manage cirrhosis and live well.

Get Expert Care at Med Center Health

If you’ve been diagnosed with liver disease or are experiencing symptoms of cirrhosis, our team at Med Center Health is here to help. We provide comprehensive care and long-term support to protect your liver health and improve your quality of life.