Cirrhosis

What is cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis is a condition in which your liver gradually deteriorates and eventually ceases to function normally. Various liver diseases and health problems can lead to cirrhosis, such as hepatitis C and chronic alcoholism.

Cirrhosis results from repeated damage to your liver. Every time your liver gets damaged, it tries to repair itself, causing scar tissue to develop. This scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue and interferes with the flow of blood through your liver.

The liver is the largest organ inside your body. It plays a key role in several functions necessary for your survival, including storing and processing nutrients, detoxifying your body, and making new proteins.

What are the symptoms of cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis typically doesn’t cause any signs or symptoms until extensive liver damage is already underway. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Bruising or bleeding more easily
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Itchy skin
• Appetite loss
• Abdominal bloating
• Swelling in the legs
• Jaundice
• Spiderlike blood vessels on your skin

If you think you’re experiencing symptoms of cirrhosis, contact the team at Digestive Disease Specialists.

What causes cirrhosis?

The most common causes of cirrhosis are:

• Chronic alcohol abuse
• Hepatitis C
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Other possible causes of cirrhosis include:

• Autoimmune hepatitis
• Diseases that damage or destroy your liver’s bile ducts, such as cystic fibrosis
• Inherited diseases that affect the liver, such as Wilson’s disease
• Infections such as schistosomiasis

How is cirrhosis diagnosed and treated?

After your provider reviews your medical history and performs a physical exam, they may take a blood test, imaging tests, or a liver biopsy.

Then, they work with you to develop a treatment plan based on your condition. Depending on the cause of your cirrhosis and the severity of your condition, treatment may include:

• Avoiding alcohol
• Losing weight
• Medications to control Hepatitis C

They can also provide treatments for any uncomfortable symptoms of cirrhosis, such as itching and abdominal pain.

The Digestive Disease Specialists team strives to preserve your liver function and prevent future damage or disease. They provide resources to help you cope with lifestyle changes, such as tips on healthier eating and eliminating alcohol consumption.

If you suspect you may have liver cirrhosis, call Digestive Disease Specialists or request an appointment online today.