Liver Cirrhosis

What Is Liver Cirrhosis?

Liver cirrhosis is a late stage of liver disease where healthy liver tissues are replaced with scar tissues. Each time your liver is injured, it tries to repair itself. In the process of doing so, scar tissue forms. As more and more scar tissue forms, it makes it harder for the liver to function properly.

What Causes Liver Cirrhosis?

Liver cirrhosis can be attributed to various factors, such as:

Stages of Liver Disease

Liver disease progresses through several stages, each marked by specific changes in liver health and function.

Stage 1: Steatosis

The initial stage is characterised by the inflammation of the bile duct or liver. Symptoms typically include abdominal discomfort. Symptoms and inflammation are generally treatable at this stage. However, if left untreated, this inflammation can lead to liver damage.

Stage 2: Fibrosis

Liver disease is frequently identified during the second or third stage when symptoms become more apparent. At this point, scarring or inflammation begins to impede blood flow in the liver, affecting its function. However, with appropriate treatment, the liver retains the potential to recover.

Stage 3: Cirrhosis

The third stage, known as cirrhosis, represents the advanced stage of liver disease, primarily resulting from untreated inflammation and scarring. Over time, healthy liver cells are replaced by scar tissue, leading to permanent scarring and hardening of the liver. As scar tissue accumulates, liver function diminishes, making blood flow through the liver difficult.

Stage 4: Liver Failure or Advanced Liver Disease

The final stage signifies the end stage of the disease, where the liver loses its ability to function effectively. Prompt medical intervention is necessary at this stage to prevent fatalities and manage complications associated with liver failure.

What Are the Symptoms of Early-Stage Liver Cirrhosis?

• Persistent tiredness and weakness (fatigue)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• A general feeling of discomfort or illness (malaise)
• Upper abdominal pain
• Swelling in the abdomen, ankles, or legs
• Red patches on the palms
• Small, spider-like blood vessels on the skin (spider angiomas)

What Are the Symptoms of Advanced Liver Cirrhosis?

• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
• Swelling in the abdomen (ascites)
• Swollen legs (oedema)
• Dark-coloured urine and light-coloured or bloody stool
• Vomiting blood
• Motor dysfunction
• Itchy skin without visible rash (pruritus)
• Confusion, disorientation, or mood changes (encephalopathy)

How Is Liver Cirrhosis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing liver cirrhosis usually includes the following:

How Is Liver Cirrhosis Treated?

Liver cirrhosis treatment involves a multifaceted approach aimed at addressing the underlying causes, managing complications, and preserving liver function. Treatment options include:

Can Liver Cirrhosis Be Prevented?

While some causes of liver cirrhosis are not entirely preventable, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help. These include: