Cirrhosis is a progressive liver disease characterised by the gradual replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue, leading to impaired liver function. This condition often results from chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B or C, alcoholic liver disease, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

In India, cirrhosis is a significant health issue, affecting millions, with hepatitis B and C being leading causes. Approximately 10% of the Indian population is estimated to have some form of chronic liver disease.

Managing cirrhosis involves controlling the underlying cause, monitoring liver function, and addressing complications.

If you experience symptoms like jaundice, severe abdominal pain, or persistent fatigue, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Cirrhosis is a condition in which the liver becomes severely scarred due to various underlying causes. Here are the primary factors contributing to the development of cirrhosis:

1. Chronic Viral Hepatitis

• Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): Long-term infection with Hepatitis B can lead to chronic liver inflammation and eventually cirrhosis. The virus causes persistent liver damage, leading to scar tissue formation.
• Hepatitis C Virus (HCV): Chronic Hepatitis C infection is a leading cause of cirrhosis. The virus can cause ongoing liver inflammation and damage, resulting in fibrosis and cirrhosis over time.

2. Excessive Alcohol Consumption:
Prolonged and excessive alcohol intake can damage liver cells, leading to alcoholic hepatitis, which can progress to cirrhosis. The liver becomes inflamed and scarred due to the toxic effects of alcohol.

3. Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH):
A more severe form of NAFLD, NASH involves fat accumulation in the liver along with inflammation and liver cell injury. Over time, this can lead to fibrosis and cirrhosis, particularly in individuals with obesity, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome.

4. Autoimmune Hepatitis:
In this condition, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells, causing chronic inflammation and scarring. This autoimmune response can progress to cirrhosis if not managed effectively.

5. Genetic Disorders

• Wilson’s Disease: An inherited disorder that leads to excessive accumulation of copper in the liver, causing damage and cirrhosis.
• Hemochromatosis: This genetic condition results in excessive iron buildup in the liver, which can cause liver damage and progression to cirrhosis.

6. Drug-Induced Liver Injury:
Certain medications, such as high doses of acetaminophen or specific antibiotics, can cause liver damage if used long-term. Additionally, exposure to toxic substances can contribute to cirrhosis.

7. Biliary Disorders:

• Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC): An autoimmune disease affecting the bile ducts, leading to cholestasis (impaired bile flow) and eventually cirrhosis.
• Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC): A chronic liver disease characterised by inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts, which can progress to cirrhosis.

8. Cardiac Cirrhosis:
Severe and prolonged heart failure can lead to liver congestion and damage, eventually resulting in cirrhosis. This occurs due to chronic blood flow issues affecting liver function.

Understanding these causes is essential for diagnosing and managing cirrhosis. Identifying and treating the underlying condition early can help slow the progression of cirrhosis

1. General Symptoms

• Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent tiredness and general weakness are frequent early symptoms of cirrhosis, impacting daily activities and overall well-being. As the liver’s ability to process nutrients and detoxify the blood diminishes, energy levels can significantly decrease.

2. Jaundice: Jaundice occurs due to the accumulation of bilirubin, a yellow pigment, in the bloodstream. This causes a noticeable yellow tint to the skin and sclera (the white part of the eyes) and indicates that the liver is not effectively processing bilirubin.

3. Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Abdominal Pain and Swelling: Patients with cirrhosis often experience pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen, where the liver is located. Abdominal swelling (ascites) can occur due to fluid buildup caused by increased pressure in the liver’s blood vessels.
• Nausea and Loss of Appetite: Cirrhosis can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea and a reduced appetite, which may result in unintended weight loss.
  

4. Edema and Bruising

• Swelling of Legs and Ankles: Fluid retention often leads to swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet. This is due to decreased protein levels in the blood and increased pressure in the liver’s blood vessels.
• Easy Bruising and Bleeding: The liver’s reduced ability to produce clotting factors can lead to easy bruising and prolonged bleeding from minor injuries or cuts.
  

5. Skin and Mental Symptoms

• Spider Angiomas: Small, spider-like blood vessels may appear on the skin, particularly on the chest and back. These are caused by altered hormone levels and increased pressure in the liver’s blood vessels.
• Dark Urine and Pale Stools: Dark, tea-coloured urine and pale-coloured stools can occur due to changes in bile production and excretion, reflecting impaired liver function.