By

― Dr. Saurabh Singhal- Liver Transplant Surgeon

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Cirrhosis is characterized by severe liver scarring, resulting from various liver diseases such as hepatitis or chronic alcohol abuse. Each instance of liver injury, whether from excessive alcohol consumption or infection, prompts a healing process that leads to the formation of scar tissue. As cirrhosis progresses, this scar tissue accumulates, impairing the liver's functionality. Advanced stages of cirrhosis pose a significant risk to life.

Unfortunately, the liver damage caused by cirrhosis is generally irreversible. However, early diagnosis and treatment of liver cirrhosis can help limit further damage, and in rare cases, partial reversal may occur.

Symptoms of cirrhosis often remain latent until significant liver damage occurs. When symptoms manifest, they may include fatigue, easy bruising, loss of appetite, nausea, edema (swelling in the legs, feet, or ankles), weight loss, itchy skin, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), ascites (abdominal fluid accumulation), spiderlike blood vessels on the skin, reddening of the palms, pale fingernails, clubbing of the fingers, and various hormonal changes affecting both men and women.

A wide array of diseases and conditions can contribute to liver damage and subsequent cirrhosis, including prolonged alcohol abuse, chronic viral hepatitis (such as hepatitis B, C, and D), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and autoimmune conditions affecting the liver.

Risk factors for cirrhosis include excessive alcohol consumption, obesity (which can lead to fatty liver disease), and chronic viral hepatitis infections.

Complications arising from cirrhosis include portal hypertension (increased pressure in the veins supplying the liver), edema, ascites, splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen), bleeding from varices (enlarged veins in the esophagus or stomach), susceptibility to infections, malnutrition, hepatic encephalopathy (brain dysfunction due to liver failure), jaundice, bone disease, heightened risk of liver cancer, and acute-on-chronic multiorgan failure.

Preventive measures to reduce the risk of cirrhosis include abstaining from alcohol if diagnosed with liver disease, adopting a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking precautions to prevent hepatitis infections through safe practices and vaccination.