Liver Cirrhosis
Liver Cirrhosis
Liver cirrhosis is a late stage of liver damage where healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, affecting the liver’s ability to function properly. It develops slowly over many years as a result of chronic liver diseases like hepatitis B or C, fatty liver disease (NAFLD/AFLD), or long-term alcohol abuse. In cirrhosis, the scar tissue blocks blood flow through the liver and slows the processing of nutrients, hormones, drugs, and toxins. As the disease progresses, it can lead to serious complications such as liver failure, portal hypertension, internal bleeding, and even liver cancer. Early cirrhosis may not show symptoms, but as the condition worsens, signs such as fatigue, jaundice, fluid retention, and confusion can appear. While cirrhosis cannot usually be reversed, its progression can be slowed or stopped with early diagnosis, treatment of the underlying cause, and lifestyle changes. In advanced cases, a liver transplant may be the only option. Managing cirrhosis requires regular medical care, a healthy diet, complete alcohol avoidance, and medications to control complications.
Symptoms of Liver Cirrhosis
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Swelling in legs and abdomen (ascites)
- Itchy skin
- Easy bruising and bleeding
- Confusion or memory loss (hepatic encephalopathy)
- Spider-like blood vessels on the skin
Diagnosis of Liver Cirrhosis
- Blood tests to assess liver function (ALT, AST, albumin, bilirubin)
- Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
- FibroScan to measure liver stiffness
- Endoscopy to check for varices in the esophagus or stomach
- Liver biopsy (in some cases) to confirm extent of scarring
Treatment of Liver Cirrhosis
- Treat underlying cause (e.g., antivirals for hepatitis, stop alcohol use)
- Medications to reduce fluid buildup, manage portal hypertension, and prevent infections
- Low-sodium diet to control swelling
- Regular monitoring for liver cancer (HCC)
- Liver transplant in severe or end-stage cirrhosis cases
Conclusion
Liver cirrhosis is a progressive and potentially life-threatening condition, but with early diagnosis and proper management, its complications can be minimized. Lifestyle changes like alcohol cessation, healthy eating, and timely treatment of the underlying cause can slow disease progression. Regular check-ups, imaging, and liver function tests are essential to monitor liver health and prevent liver failure. In advanced cases, a liver transplant remains a life-saving solution. Awareness, early action, and medical guidance are key to living longer and better with cirrhosis.
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