What is cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is a condition that occurs when the liver is damaged over time and healthy liver tissue is replaced with scar tissue. This scarring makes it harder for the liver to work properly.

The liver helps clean your blood, break down food, and protect your body from infections. Many different conditions can cause liver damage that leads to cirrhosis, including:

Cirrhosis usually cannot be reversed, but treating the cause can slow or prevent further liver damage. Having cirrhosis does not mean your liver has stopped working completely.

What are the signs of cirrhosis?
In the early stages, many people with cirrhosis do not have symptoms. As liver damage progresses, symptoms may include:

  • Feeling very tired
  • Loss of appetite
  • Red, blotchy palms
  • Spider angiomas (small, spider-like blood vessels on the skin)
  • Swelling in the belly from fluid buildup (ascites)
  • Swelling in the legs (edema)
  • Loss of muscle
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

What problems can cirrhosis cause?
As cirrhosis gets worse, it can lead to several complications that require ongoing medical care.

Fluid buildup (ascites and edema)
Fluid can collect in the belly or legs. This may cause swelling, discomfort, trouble breathing, or difficulty eating. Treatment may include reducing salt intake, taking medicines called diuretics (water pills), draining fluid with a procedure called paracentesis, or other treatments if fluid continues to return.

Infection of belly fluid (spontaneous bacterial peritonitis or SBP)
Fluid buildup in the belly can sometimes become infected. Symptoms may include fever, chills, belly pain, nausea, vomiting, or feeling unwell. Antibiotics are used to treat this infection.

Liver cancer
People with cirrhosis have a higher risk of developing liver cancer. Doctors recommend liver cancer screening every 6 months with an ultrasound and a blood test called alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). Finding liver cancer early can improve treatment options.

Bleeding from swollen blood vessels (varices)
Cirrhosis can cause blood vessels in the esophagus or stomach to become enlarged. These are called varices. If they bleed, it can be life-threatening. Doctors may recommend medicines or an endoscopy procedure to help prevent bleeding.

Vomiting blood or having a bowel movement that is red or black can be a sign of serious bleeding. Call 911 or go to the emergency room right away.

Trouble thinking clearly (hepatic encephalopathy)
When the liver cannot remove toxins from the blood, they can affect the brain. This may cause trouble concentrating, confusion, forgetfulness, sleep changes, or severe symptoms such as loss of consciousness. Medicines can help manage this condition.

Liver transplant
In some cases, the liver becomes too damaged to work properly. A liver transplant may be needed. Your liver specialist will discuss this option if it becomes necessary.

When to get help right away
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have:

  • Vomiting blood
  • Red or black stools
  • Sudden confusion or trouble staying awake
  • High fever with belly pain

Contact us
If you have questions about cirrhosis or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact our office at 612-871-1145 or schedule an appointment online.

General Recommendations: http://www.hepatitis.va.gov/patient/complications/cirrhosis/decompensated.asp