Directory Search
Cirrhosis
Overview:
Cirrhosis (sih-ROW-sis) is a term used to describe scarring of the liver. Your liver is a large organ that sits in your upper abdomen. The liver carries out several essential functions, such as detoxifying harmful substances in your body, purifying your blood and manufacturing vital nutrients.
Signs and Symptoms:
Cirrhosis often has no signs or symptoms until liver damage is extensive. When signs and symptoms do occur, they may include:
* Fatigue
* Bleeding easily
* Easy bruising
* Fluid accumulation in your abdomen
* Loss of appetite
* Nausea
* Swelling in your legs
* Weight loss
Causes and Organs Affected:
Cirrhosis is caused by scar tissue that forms in your liver in response to damage that occurs repeatedly over many years.
Each time your liver is injured, it tries to repair itself. In the process, scar tissue forms in the liver. As the scar tissue builds up, it becomes increasingly difficult for the liver to function. In advanced cirrhosis, the liver no longer works. Because the liver is a vital organ that you can't live without, if it fails it must be replaced with a liver transplant.
Risk Factor:
Sharing needles and having unprotected sex can increase your risk of hepatitis B and C. Protect yourself by abstaining from sex or using a condom if you choose to have sex. Ask your doctor whether you should be vaccinated for hepatitis B.
Treatment:
Treatments for the underlying cause of cirrhosis
In early cirrhosis, it may be possible to minimize damage to the liver by treating the underlying cause. For example:
* Treatment for alcohol dependency. People with cirrhosis caused by alcohol use need to stop drinking. If stopping alcohol use is difficult, your doctor may recommend a treatment program for alcohol addiction.
* Medications to control hepatitis. Medications may control damage to liver cells caused by hepatitis B or C.
Other Information:
If you have cirrhosis, take precautions to limit additional liver damage. For instance don't drink alcohol, Eat a low-sodium diet, Choose a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, Avoid infections and Use over-the-counter medications carefully.