What Is Liver Cirrhosis?
General information on the causes and symptoms of liver cirrhosis, fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites) and the importance of regular medical follow-up.
Definition
Cirrhosis is the replacement of healthy liver tissue by scar tissue as a result of long-standing damage. Scarring progressively disturbs the liver's blood flow and its hundreds of functions. Cirrhosis does not appear overnight; it is the late stage of a process lasting years, and in early stages progression can be halted or slowed.
- Definition
- Permanent scarring of the liver
- Main causes
- Viral hepatitis, alcohol, fatty liver disease
- Common findings
- Fatigue, jaundice, abdominal fluid
- Follow-up
- Regular care with a gastroenterologist
Causes
The leading causes worldwide are hepatitis B and C viruses, long-term alcohol use and, with growing frequency, fatty liver disease. Less commonly, immune-mediated liver diseases, biliary diseases and certain inherited conditions can progress to cirrhosis. Hepatitis B vaccination and early treatment of hepatitis are among the most effective ways of preventing cirrhosis.
Symptoms
In early stages there are usually no symptoms, or only vague complaints such as fatigue and poor appetite. In later stages, yellowing of the skin and eyes, easy bruising, leg swelling, abdominal enlargement and mental clouding may appear. Each of these findings requires medical assessment without delay.
Fluid in the abdomen (ascites)
In advanced cirrhosis, fluid may accumulate in the abdominal cavity, a condition called ascites. It presents with rapid abdominal enlargement, tightness and difficulty breathing. Because it impairs quality of life and carries additional risks such as infection, ascites is managed under medical supervision; salt restriction and the treatment plan are set by the physician.
The importance of follow-up
People diagnosed with cirrhosis are monitored at regular intervals for additional risks such as bleeding, infections and liver cancer. The follow-up and treatment plan is personalised by the gastroenterologist. Avoiding alcohol, completing vaccinations and avoiding medicines and herbal products not approved by the physician are essential parts of care.
This page is intended as general health information; for diagnosis and treatment, please consult your physician.
Frequently asked questions
Is cirrhosis reversible?
Established scar tissue is largely permanent; however, when the cause is found and treated early, progression can be halted and the remaining liver function preserved. Assessment belongs to the specialist.
Why does fluid accumulate in the abdomen?
In advanced cirrhosis, pressure changes in the liver and disturbed protein balance can lead to fluid accumulating in the abdominal cavity. This finding is managed under medical supervision.
What should a person with cirrhosis pay attention to?
Complete avoidance of alcohol, not using medicines or herbal products without physician approval, completing vaccinations and keeping regular appointments are the core measures. Nutrition is planned with the physician and dietitian.
Can cirrhosis be prevented?
To a large extent, yes: hepatitis B vaccination, early diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis, limiting alcohol and healthy habits against fatty liver disease are the most effective forms of prevention.
Aymed İlaç Sanayi manufactures authorised medicinal products. This page does not contain diagnostic or treatment advice; it is intended as general health information.