Liver cirrhosis is the result of long-term liver damage. When the liver is injured repeatedly, it tries to repair itself, and in doing so, forms scar tissue. Over time, this scar tissue replaces healthy liver cells, reducing the liver's ability to function. Cirrhosis is serious but manageable, especially when caught early.
What Causes Cirrhosis?
- Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
- Long-term heavy alcohol use
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
- Autoimmune liver disease
- Bile duct disorders
In many patients, more than one cause is present. Identifying the underlying cause is the first step in treatment.
Symptoms to Watch For
Early cirrhosis often has no symptoms. As the disease progresses, patients may experience:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Nausea
- Swelling in the abdomen (ascites) or legs
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Confusion or memory problems (hepatic encephalopathy)
How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a combination of:
- Blood tests (liver function tests, CBC, coagulation tests)
- Ultrasound or CT scan of the abdomen
- FibroScan (a non-invasive way to measure liver stiffness)
- Liver biopsy in selected cases
Early diagnosis allows for treatment before the liver is severely damaged.
Treatment Options
Treatment focuses on stopping further damage and managing complications:
- Treating the underlying cause (antivirals for hepatitis, alcohol cessation)
- Medications to control ascites and prevent bleeding
- Nutritional support
- Regular monitoring with ultrasound and tumour markers
- Liver transplant for end-stage cirrhosis
When Is a Transplant Needed?
A liver transplant is considered when cirrhosis reaches a stage where the liver can no longer sustain life. This is assessed using the MELD score. If your MELD score is high or if you have developed serious complications, a transplant evaluation is recommended.
Living donor liver transplant is often the fastest route to a transplant in India, as deceased donor organs are limited.