Cirrhosis

Overview

Your liver is an organ that helps filter your blood. It helps process and store nutrients from the foods you eat. And it does other important jobs. When scar tissue builds up in your liver over time, this is called "cirrhosis."

Causes

You can get cirrhosis if you drink too much alcohol throughout your life. A hepatitis B or C infection can cause it. Many other diseases and disorders can lead to cirrhosis. It can also be caused by medications and by other issues.

Symptoms and Complications

You can have cirrhosis for a long time without realizing it. As it gets worse, you can have a lot of problems. You may feel tired and confused. Your skin may be itchy. It may bruise easily. Your skin and eyes may turn yellow. Your legs and abdomen may swell. You may have nausea. You may lose your appetite. You may have other issues, too. Cirrhosis can lead to bleeding, infections, bone disease and liver cancer. Eventually, your liver may stop working completely.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the stage of your cirrhosis. You may be able to manage it with lifestyle changes, medications and other options. You may need to fix the condition that is causing your cirrhosis. You may need to fix the problems caused by your cirrhosis. If your liver stops working, you may get a liver transplant. Your healthcare provider can create a care plan that is right for your needs.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.