Cirrhosis is a liver condition that refers to severe scarring of this organ. This is a serious health condition that can be caused by a variety of other health problems and diseases. Hepatitis is a common reason for Cirrhosis, but certain medications and chronic alcoholism can also cause Cirrhosis. Repeated injury to the liver can also cause Cirrhosis. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate treatment to prevent further damage to this vital organ in the body.
The common symptoms of Cirrhosis are:
Many health conditions can lead to Cirrhosis. There are other behaviours that can cause this condition as well, such as taking street drugs or drinking an excessive amount of alcohol. The common causes of Cirrhosis are:
The most common risk factors for Cirrhosis often match the causes. Overall, alcoholism, having hepatitis, or having a pre-existing liver disease or autoimmune disease are the most common risk factors for developing Cirrhosis. Being overweight can also be a risk factor for this condition.
Cirrhosis diagnosis requires a variety of tests in most cases. Blood work can show liver values and can also identify other problems with a patient’s health that might be causing Cirrhosis. Most patients with Cirrhosis symptoms will also be screened for hepatitis. Imaging such as MRI and CT scan can also be done to verify organ health and function. In some cases, biopsies will be done to verify the condition of the liver tissue.
Cirrhosis cannot always be prevented. If you have certain health conditions, you might end up with Cirrhosis despite your best efforts to avoid this health problem. However, as a rule of thumb, avoiding street drugs, being careful not to take too many NSAIDs, and being sure that you are not drinking too much alcohol can significantly reduce your chances of ending up with Cirrhosis.
Treatment for this condition can vary depending on the reason that the patient has Cirrhosis. If hepatitis has caused Cirrhosis, treatment of the hepatitis strain will be part of the overall treatment plan prescribed by a doctor. Weight loss and ceasing to drink alcohol might also be part of a patient’s treatment plan.
Secondary symptoms such as fluid buildup in the body, hypertension, and repeated infections related to Cirrhosis can usually be managed with correct therapies and medications. There are medicines that can control some of the symptoms of Cirrhosis, but liver damage usually cannot be reversed. Patients with severe Cirrhosis might not have any other options besides a liver transplant.