Cirrhosis Liver

Cirrhosis of the Liver

Cirrhosis is a progressive, irreversible scarring of the liver due to chronic liver damage. Over time, the liver’s normal tissue is replaced by fibrous scar tissue, impairing its function. Cirrhosis can eventually lead to liver failure and life-threatening complications if left untreated.

Causes of Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis can result from long-term liver diseases and damage, including:

1. Chronic Alcohol Abuse

• Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD) – Excessive alcohol consumption damages liver cells.

2. Viral Hepatitis

• Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C – Long-term infection causes inflammation and scarring.

3. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

• Fat accumulation in the liver due to obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

• Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) – Severe form of NAFLD causing liver inflammation.

4. Autoimmune and Genetic Disorders

• Autoimmune Hepatitis – The immune system attacks liver cells.

• Wilson’s Disease – Excess copper buildup in the liver.

• Hemochromatosis – Iron overload damaging liver tissue.

5. Biliary Diseases

• Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) – Immune system attacks bile ducts.

• Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) – Inflammation and scarring of bile ducts.

6. Chronic Liver Infections & Other Causes

• Parasitic Infections (Schistosomiasis).

• Long-term drug toxicity (certain medications and toxins).

Symptoms of Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis often develops slowly over years, and symptoms may not appear until significant liver damage has occurred. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue and weakness.

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes).

• Dark-colored urine and pale stools.

• Swelling in the legs, ankles, and abdomen (Ascites).

• Loss of appetite, nausea, and weight loss.

• Easy bruising and bleeding (due to clotting problems).

• Itchy skin (Pruritus).

• Confusion, memory problems, and personality changes (Hepatic Encephalopathy).

• Spider-like blood vessels on the skin (Spider Angiomas).

Complications of Cirrhosis

If cirrhosis progresses, it can lead to severe complications such as:

• Liver Failure – The liver loses its ability to function.

• Portal Hypertension – High blood pressure in the liver’s veins, causing variceal bleeding.

• Esophageal and Gastric Varices – Swollen veins in the digestive tract that can rupture and cause life-threatening bleeding.

• Hepatic Encephalopathy – Toxin buildup affecting brain function.

• Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma) – Increased risk in cirrhotic patients.

• Kidney Failure (Hepatorenal Syndrome).

Diagnosis of Cirrhosis

• Liver Function Tests (LFTs) – Checks liver enzyme levels.

• Ultrasound, CT Scan, or MRI – Detects scarring and complications.

• Liver Biopsy – Confirms liver fibrosis and cirrhosis severity.

• FibroScan (Elastography) – A non-invasive test to measure liver stiffness.

Treatment for Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis cannot be reversed, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms, preventing further liver damage, and treating complications:

• Lifestyle Changes

  • Avoid alcohol completely.

  • Follow a liver-friendly diet (low sodium, balanced nutrition).

  • Maintain a healthy weight and control diabetes.

• Medications

  • Antiviral drugs (for Hepatitis B and C).

  • Diuretics – To reduce fluid buildup (ascites).

  • Lactulose & Rifaximin – For hepatic encephalopathy.

  • Beta-blockers – To lower portal hypertension and prevent bleeding.

• Liver Transplant

  • The only definitive cure for advanced cirrhosis or liver failure.

Prevention of Cirrhosis

• Limit alcohol consumption or avoid it completely.

• Get vaccinated for Hepatitis B.

• Maintain a healthy weight and control diabetes.

• Avoid sharing needles and unsafe blood transfusions.

• Follow a balanced, liver-friendly diet.

Cirrhosis is a serious condition, but early detection, lifestyle changes, and medical treatment can slow its progression and improve quality of life.