CONDITIONS
Gastroenterology
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a complication of liver disease characterised by severe scarring to the liver. Scarring, or fibrosis, on the liver, can harm the overall function of the liver. When cirrhosis sets in, the damage cannot be reversed and may lead to life-threatening complications such as high blood pressure, infection, malnutrition, bleeding, enlargement of the spleen and swelling in the legs or abdomen. The condition can also increase the risk of liver cancer in many cases too.
What causes cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis can be caused by a number of diseases or lifestyle practises that affect the health of your liver. Alcohol abuse and chronic use of certain medications can lead to cirrhosis. The condition can also be caused by infections such as hepatitis or syphilis. Other disorders, such as cystic fibrosis, liver disease and abnormalities in the bile ducts can also lead to the development of cirrhosis.
What are the related symptoms?
Cirrhosis affects your liver function and can be characterised by itchy skin, nausea, weight loss, mental confusion, fatigue and loss of appetite. You may also suffer from jaundice (yellow discolouration in your eyes and skin) or oedema (water retention in the feet, hands and legs) if you have cirrhosis.
How is cirrhosis diagnosed?
Your physician will conduct blood tests and examinations to confirm cirrhosis. These tests will help determine malfunctions in the liver and identify any damage caused to the organ. As part of testing, your doctor may conduct an ultrasound, MRI or CT scan to view the liver too. A tissue sample of your liver may also be used in a biopsy to determine the full extent of damage caused by cirrhosis.
How is cirrhosis treated?
Treatment for cirrhosis is largely dependent on the condition’s underlying cause and the extent of scarring on the liver. Your physician may suggest lifestyle changes or medical treatment for underlying infections to help slow the development of cirrhosis. You may need to reduce your alcohol intake or lose weight if this is the case. Other complications of cirrhosis, such as high blood pressure or oedema, can also be treated with medications. If your liver is severely damaged, however, you will need to be hospitalised and may require a liver transplant.
