ONE LIFE ONE LIVER

What is Cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis is late-stage liver scarring (fibrosis) caused by long-term damage. Healthy liver tissue is replaced by stiff scar tissue, which disrupts liver function and can lead to liver failure.

Common Causes

• Chronic alcohol abuse (most common preventable cause)

• Viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B & C)

• Fatty liver disease (from obesity/diabetes)

• Autoimmune diseases (like autoimmune hepatitis)

• Genetic conditions (hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease)

• Toxins & medications (long-term drug/chemical exposure)

Symptoms (Often Silent Until Advanced)

Early stages may have no symptoms, but as cirrhosis progresses:

• Fatigue & weakness

• Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes)

• Swelling in legs/abdomen (edema & ascites)

• Easy bruising/bleeding (due to poor clotting)

• Itchy skin

• Confusion or memory issues (hepatic encephalopathy)

• Red palms & spider-like blood vessels on skin

Complications

• Liver failure – The liver can no longer function.

• Portal hypertension – High blood pressure in liver veins, causing internal bleeding.

• Liver cancer (HCC) – Higher risk in cirrhotic livers.

Prevention & Management

✅ Limit alcohol – Avoid excessive drinking.
✅ Get vaccinated – Protect against Hepatitis A & B.
✅ Treat hepatitis early – Antivirals can cure Hep C and control Hep B.
✅ Maintain a healthy weight – Prevents fatty liver disease.
✅ Eat a balanced diet – Low salt, high protein (if no encephalopathy).
✅ Avoid liver toxins – Certain medications (e.g., acetaminophen overdose) and illicit drugs.
✅ Regular check-ups – Early detection of liver damage is key.

Treatment Options

• Lifestyle changes (stop alcohol, healthy diet)

• Medications (for underlying causes like hepatitis)

• Liver transplant (in severe cases)

Bottom Line

Cirrhosis is irreversible, but early intervention can slow progression. If you have risk factors (alcohol use, hepatitis, obesity), get liver tests (blood work, ultrasound, FibroScan) to catch damage before it’s too late.