Introduction
Liver cirrhosis, also known as cirrhosis of the liver, is a late stage of chronic liver disease characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue (fibrosis). This scarring impairs the liver’s ability to function properly and can lead to serious complications. Cirrhosis develops gradually over many years as a result of long-term liver damage.
Causes
The most common causes of liver cirrhosis include:
- Chronic alcohol abuse
- Chronic viral hepatitis (especially hepatitis B and C)
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), often related to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome
- Autoimmune liver diseases (such as autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis)
- Genetic disorders (such as hemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease)
- Chronic bile duct diseases
- Long-term exposure to certain toxins or medications
In some cases, the cause remains unknown (cryptogenic cirrhosis).
Symptoms
Cirrhosis may not cause symptoms in its early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Itchy skin
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen (edema and ascites)
- Easy bruising and bleeding
- Spider-like blood vessels on the skin
- Confusion, memory problems, or difficulty concentrating (hepatic encephalopathy)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cirrhosis involves a combination of:
- Medical history and physical examination
- Blood tests to assess liver function and detect complications
- Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize the liver
- Liver biopsy in some cases to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of scarring
Treatment Options
There is no cure for cirrhosis, but treatment focuses on slowing disease progression, managing symptoms, and preventing complications:
- Treating the underlying cause (e.g., antiviral therapy for hepatitis, alcohol cessation, weight loss for NAFLD)
- Medications to manage symptoms and complications (such as diuretics for fluid buildup, lactulose for hepatic encephalopathy)
- Regular monitoring for liver cancer and other complications
- Nutritional support and vitamin supplementation
- Avoiding alcohol and medications that can further damage the liver
- In advanced cases, liver transplantation may be considered
Prevention
Preventing cirrhosis involves addressing risk factors and maintaining liver health:
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B
- Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles to reduce the risk of hepatitis infection
- Maintain a healthy weight and manage conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol
- Follow medical advice for managing chronic liver diseases
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Severe abdominal swelling or pain
- Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools
- Confusion or changes in mental state
- Sudden, unexplained weight loss or muscle wasting
Takeaway
Liver cirrhosis is a serious, progressive condition that can lead to life-threatening complications. Early diagnosis, treatment of the underlying cause, and regular medical follow-up are essential for managing the disease and improving quality of life.