Cirrhosis of the Liver: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
The liver is a vital organ that aids in digestion, detoxification, and protein synthesis, among other functions. When the liver is repeatedly injured, however, it can develop cirrhosis — a condition in which healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, preventing the liver from functioning properly.
Cirrhosis is a mounting problem across the UK and is caused by drinking too much alcohol, hepatitis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Untreated, it can result in liver failure, liver cancer, and death. But early detection and appropriate treatment can make a big difference.
In this blog, we’ll break down the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for cirrhosis, as well as some useful prevention tips.
What Happens in Cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis arises if the liver is damaged over and over again — by alcohol, chronic infection, or something else. The liver tries to heal itself, but in time this takes the form of fibrosis (scarring). When scar tissue builds up, blood flow is disrupted and the liver is unable to operate normally.
What’s more, “it is not reversible and is a worsening condition”. The liver may be able to compensate in early stages, but late-stage cirrhosis can lead to liver failure. The good news, however, is that early intervention can slow or even halt additional damage.
Common Causes of Cirrhosis
There are many causes of cirrhosis.
1. Chronic Alcoholism
- Heavy drinking over a period of many years is a major cause. Alcohol kills cells in the liver, leading to inflammation and scar tissue. The greater the quantity and number of years drunk, the greater the associated risk.
2. Hepatitis C
- An infection caused by a virus that results in ongoing inflammation of the liver, which can progress to cirrhosis if left untreated.
3. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
- Associated with obesity and diabetes, NAFLD leads to fat accumulation in the liver, which can lead to cirrhosis.
4. Autoimmune Hepatitis
- Inappropriate immune system attacks on liver cells result in inflammation and scarring.
5. Haemochromatosis
- An excessive amount of iron is absorbed by the body due to a hereditary condition that damages the liver.
6. Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)
- Bile builds up and damages the liver as a result of an autoimmune disease that destroys bile duct cells.
Signs and Symptoms of Cirrhosis
Symptoms depend on the stage:
Early Symptoms (Often Mild)
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
Advanced Symptoms
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Ascites (fluid in the abdomen)
- Easy bruising & bleeding (low clotting factors)
- Hepatic encephalopathy (confusion, memory loss)
- Spider-like blood vessels under the skin
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
Diagnosis of Cirrhosis
1. Medical History and Physical Examination
- Alcohol use, medical history, and physical signs like an enlarged liver will be considered by a doctor.
2. Blood Tests
- Liver function tests (check enzymes)
- Low platelet count & albumin concentration (may indicate cirrhosis)
3. Imaging Tests
- Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to check the structure of your liver.
4. Liver Biopsy (if needed)
- A tiny sample of your liver is checked to see if it is scarred.
Treatment Options
Although cirrhosis cannot be reversed, it can be managed to control symptoms and slow its progression:
1. Addressing the Underlying Cause
- Hepatitis C: Antiviral drugs
- Alcohol-induced liver cirrhosis: Total alcohol abstinence
- NAFLD: Management by weight loss & diabetes control
2. Managing Complications
- Diuretics for fluid retention
- Lactulose for hepatic encephalopathy
- Nutritional support to help avoid muscle loss
3. Lifestyle Changes
- Liver-friendly diet (low salt, adequate protein)
- Regular exercise (if medically approved)
4. Liver Transplant
- In severe cases, a transplant may be the only option.
Prevention of Cirrhosis
Preventive measures include:
✔ Limiting alcohol (stick to UK guidelines: ≤14 units/week)
✔ Vaccination (Hepatitis B)
✔ Healthy weight management
✔ Safe sex & avoiding needle sharing (to prevent hepatitis)
Complications of Cirrhosis
Untreated cirrhosis may result in:
- Liver cancer
- Portal hypertension (high blood pressure in the veins of the liver)
- Bleeding varices (severe internal bleeding)
- Kidney failure
When to See a Doctor
Get emergency medical help if you have:
⚠ Chronic fatigue and weight loss
⚠ Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes)
⚠ Swollen abdomen (ascites)
⚠ Confusion or memory issues (hepatic encephalopathy)
Conclusion
Cirrhosis is a dangerous but treatable condition in its earliest stages. Our experts at Chase Lodge Hospital offer superior care to help keep your liver in optimum order. If you’re worried about cirrhosis, schedule a consultation today.
Check out reliable sources – see the NHS Cirrhosis Page.
Be informed, be armed, be in control of your liver health — early intervention saves lives.
