What is Cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is the result of long-term liver damage caused by conditions such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or excessive alcohol use. As the liver attempts to repair itself, scar tissue forms—eventually limiting blood flow and impairing normal liver function.
Over time, this can lead to complications including liver failure, liver cancer, or the need for transplantation.
Common Causes
Cirrhosis can develop from a variety of underlying conditions, including:
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH/MASH)
Chronic hepatitis B or C
Long-term alcohol use
Metabolic conditions such as obesity or diabetes
Autoimmune or genetic liver diseases
NASH is one of the fastest-growing causes of cirrhosis in the United States, highlighting the importance of early detection and management.
Symptoms
Cirrhosis often has no symptoms in its early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite or weight loss
Nausea
Swelling in the abdomen or legs
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Easy bruising or bleeding
Because symptoms may not appear until the disease is advanced, early screening and monitoring are essential.
Diagnosis & Monitoring
Cirrhosis may be detected through:
Blood tests
Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI)
FibroScan or liver stiffness testing – schedule today
Liver biopsy (in some cases)
Early detection plays a critical role in slowing disease progression and improving outcomes.
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