Liver Cirrhosis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
Liver cirrhosis, also known as liver sclerosis, is a chronic condition in which healthy liver tissue is gradually replaced by scar tissue (fibrosis). This scarring disrupts the liver’s ability to work effectively. Over time, severe cirrhosis can lead to liver failure and life-threatening complications.
What Is Liver Cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is the final stage of long-term liver damage. When the liver is repeatedly injured—due to alcohol, infections, or metabolic diseases—it tries to repair itself, forming scar tissue. As the scarring increases, blood flow through the liver becomes restricted, and normal liver functions such as filtering toxins, producing proteins, and regulating nutrients begin to decline.
Common Causes of Cirrhosis
1. Chronic Alcohol Use
Long-term, heavy alcohol intake is one of the most common causes of cirrhosis. Alcohol directly damages liver cells, leading to inflammation and scarring.
2. Viral Hepatitis (Hepatitis B & C)
Chronic viral hepatitis can silently damage the liver for years until cirrhosis develops.
3. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD / NASH)
Fat accumulation in the liver—especially in individuals with obesity, diabetes or high cholesterol—can progress to inflammation and fibrosis.
4. Genetic & Metabolic Disorders
Conditions like hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease, and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can cause cirrhosis.
5. Autoimmune Hepatitis
The immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells, causing chronic inflammation.
6. Bile Duct Diseases
Diseases like primary biliary cholangitis or primary sclerosing cholangitis block the bile ducts and damage the liver.
7. Medications & Toxins
Certain drugs (e.g., methotrexate, isoniazid) and toxic exposures may also lead to cirrhosis.
Symptoms of Liver Cirrhosis
In early stages, cirrhosis may not show any symptoms. As the disease progresses, signs may include:
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Persistent fatigue and weakness
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Loss of appetite and weight loss
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Nausea and itching
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Muscle cramps
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Easy bruising or bleeding
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Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)
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Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
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Confusion, memory problems (hepatic encephalopathy)
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Spider-like veins on the skin and red palms
How Cirrhosis Is Diagnosed
Doctors may use a combination of tests:
• Blood Tests
To check liver enzymes, clotting ability, and possible causes like viral hepatitis.
• Imaging Studies
Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, and MR elastography help assess liver scarring and complications.
• Liver Biopsy
A small tissue sample helps confirm the severity and cause of cirrhosis.
Treatment of Cirrhosis
Although cirrhosis cannot always be reversed, early treatment can slow progression and prevent complications.
Treating the Cause
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Stop alcohol completely
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Treat hepatitis B/C
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Weight loss, diabetes control for NAFLD
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Manage autoimmune or metabolic disorders
Lifestyle & Dietary Changes
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Low-sodium diet to reduce ascites
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Balanced nutrition with adequate protein
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Avoid alcohol and harmful medications
Preventing Complications
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Vaccinations (hepatitis, flu, pneumonia)
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Medicines to prevent variceal bleeding
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Regular screening for liver cancer
Advanced Stage
A liver transplant may be required if liver failure develops.
Complications of Cirrhosis
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Portal hypertension
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Esophageal or gastric varices
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Ascites
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Splenomegaly
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Frequent infections
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Bleeding tendency
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Hepatic encephalopathy
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Bone weakness (osteoporosis)
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Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer)
Prevention: How to Protect Your Liver
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Avoid heavy alcohol consumption
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Control diabetes and cholesterol
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Get vaccinated for hepatitis B
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Practice safe hygiene to avoid hepatitis infection
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Avoid unnecessary medications and toxins
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Regular health check-ups if you have risk factors
Prognosis
Cirrhosis is a long-term disease, and once scarring is established, it usually cannot be fully reversed. However, with timely treatment and lifestyle changes, its progression can be slowed, and many complications can be prevented. In severe cases, liver transplantation can significantly improve survival and quality of life.
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