Also known as: Hepatic Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is late-stage scarring of the liver caused by many forms of liver disease. The scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue, progressively impairing liver function.
Cirrhosis causes over 1 million deaths annually worldwide. The three main causes globally are hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and alcohol use, with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) rapidly increasing.
Cirrhosis is classified as compensated (liver still functioning adequately) or decompensated (liver failing, with ascites, variceal bleeding, encephalopathy, or jaundice). Decompensation dramatically worsens prognosis.
Liver transplantation is the definitive treatment for decompensated cirrhosis, with 5-year survival rates exceeding 70%.
People with Liver Cirrhosis often experience the following symptoms.
Fluid accumulation in the abdomen causing distension, discomfort, and breathing difficulty.
Enlarged veins in the oesophagus or stomach that can rupture, causing life-threatening bleeding.
Confusion, personality changes, and drowsiness from toxin buildup that the liver cannot clear.
Increased pressure in the portal vein system causing ascites, varices, and splenomegaly.
Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Liver Cirrhosis.
Common approaches to managing liver cirrhosis. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.
Alcohol abstinence, antiviral treatment for hepatitis, weight loss for NAFLD.
Diuretics for ascites, lactulose for encephalopathy, beta-blockers for variceal prevention.
Ultrasound and AFP every 6 months for hepatocellular carcinoma screening.
For decompensated cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma meeting transplant criteria.
Liver function tests, FibroScan (transient elastography), abdominal ultrasound, and liver biopsy (gold standard). MELD score assesses disease severity and transplant priority.
Seek emergency care for vomiting blood, black tarry stools, severe abdominal swelling, confusion (hepatic encephalopathy), or fever with ascites.
Steps that may help reduce the risk of developing or worsening liver cirrhosis.
Limit alcohol consumption
Vaccinate against hepatitis B
Treat hepatitis C (curable)
Maintain healthy weight
If left untreated or poorly managed, liver cirrhosis may lead to:
Early fibrosis can improve with treatment. Established cirrhosis is generally irreversible but progression can be halted.
Risk increases significantly with heavy drinking (3+ drinks daily for men, 2+ for women) over many years.
Compensated cirrhosis can be stable for years with proper management. Decompensated cirrhosis has a poorer prognosis without transplant.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.