Disease
Liver Cirrhosis
Overview of Liver Cirrhosis
Liver cirrhosis is a chronic and progressive condition where healthy liver tissue is gradually replaced by scar tissue. This scarring disrupts the normal structure and function of the liver, reducing its ability to perform essential tasks such as detoxifying the blood, producing proteins, and aiding digestion. The disease develops over time and is often the final stage of long-term liver damage from conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver, or chronic alcohol abuse.
Types of Liver Cirrhosis
- Alcoholic Liver Cirrhosis: Caused by long-term excessive alcohol intake.
- Non-Alcoholic Cirrhosis (NAFLD-related): Associated with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
- Post-Hepatic Cirrhosis: Develops after chronic hepatitis B or C infections.
- Biliary Cirrhosis: Due to bile duct diseases like primary biliary cholangitis.
- Cryptogenic Cirrhosis: Cause remains unknown even after thorough testing.
- Cardiac Cirrhosis: Related to long-standing heart failure.
Symptoms of Liver Cirrhosis
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)
- Abdominal swelling (ascites)
- Itchy skin and spider-like blood vessels on the skin
- Easy bruising and bleeding
- Red palms and swelling in legs
- Mental confusion or forgetfulness (hepatic encephalopathy)
- Dark urine and pale stools
Causes of Liver Cirrhosis
- Chronic alcohol abuse
- Chronic viral hepatitis (especially Hepatitis B and C)
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Genetic disorders (e.g., hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease)
- Prolonged bile duct obstruction
- Long-term exposure to toxins or certain medications
Complications in Liver Cirrhosis
- Liver failure
- Portal hypertension (increased blood pressure in liver veins)
- Internal bleeding (varices in the stomach or esophagus)
- Kidney dysfunction (hepatorenal syndrome)
- Brain dysfunction (hepatic encephalopathy)
- Increased risk of liver cancer
- Severe infections due to weakened immunity
Risk Factors of Liver Cirrhosis
- Heavy and prolonged alcohol consumption
- Obesity and metabolic syndrome
- Chronic viral hepatitis infection
- Family history of liver diseases
- Type 2 diabetes
- Autoimmune conditions
- Long-term use of hepatotoxic medications
Preventions of Liver Cirrhosis
- Avoid or limit alcohol intake
- Get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B
- Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles to prevent hepatitis
- Maintain a healthy weight and diet
- Control blood sugar and cholesterol levels
- Use medications cautiously and under medical guidance
- Regular liver checkups if you are at risk
Diagnosis of Liver Cirrhosis
- Blood tests: Liver function tests, clotting profile, CBC
- Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI to assess liver size and structure
- Fibroscan or Elastography: Measures liver stiffness
- Liver Biopsy: Confirms the extent and pattern of liver damage
- Endoscopy: To detect varices in esophagus or stomach
Treatments of Liver Cirrhosis
- Treating the underlying cause for example antivirals for hepatitis
- Lifestyle changes: Stop alcohol, adopt a liver-friendly diet
- Medications to manage symptoms for example diuretics for ascites
- Regular monitoring for liver cancer
- Management of complications such as encephalopathy or varices
- Liver transplant in advanced or end-stage cases
Prognosis of Liver Cirrhosis
- Early-stage cirrhosis can be stabilized with proper care
- Life expectancy depends on liver function, complications and lifestyle
- Advanced stages like Stage 4 have poorer outcomes without transplant
- Timely intervention improves quality of life and survival
- Lifelong monitoring is essential for all stages
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Personalised evaluation and treatment planning
- Access to top hepatologists and liver specialists
- Second opinions for liver transplant or advanced cases
- Support for international patients, including visa and travel help
- Affordable liver cirrhosis treatment packages in India
- Continuous follow-up and nutrition counseling
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- Can my liver condition improve if I stop alcohol?
- What stage is my liver cirrhosis?
- Are there any chances of reversing the damage?
- Should I be screened for liver cancer
- What diet should I follow?
- Can cirrhosis affect my brain or kidneys?
- Is liver transplant my only option?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear explanation of your liver condition
- Detailed guidance on lifestyle changes and medications
- Compassionate discussion about prognosis and future risks
- Transparent advice on whether transplant is necessary
- Answers to all your concerns and symptoms
- Emotional and psychological support
- Supportive care planning for late-stage cirrhosis
- Help in coordinating tests, follow-ups, and second opinions