Liver Cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis is a long-term, worsening disorder in which good liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, which makes the liver work less well. It often happens when the liver is hurt for a long time because of drinking too much alcohol, viral hepatitis (such as Hepatitis B or C), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or autoimmune liver illnesses. Scar tissue blocks blood flow and makes it harder for the liver to break down nutrients, get rid of toxins, and make important proteins like clotting factors. At first, there may be no symptoms, but as cirrhosis gets worse, patients may feel tired, have yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), swelling in the abdomen from fluid retention (ascites), easy bruising, and disorientation from hepatic encephalopathy.

Portal hypertension, oesophageal varices, a higher risk of infection, and liver cancer are all possible problems. Blood tests, imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scan, and sometimes a liver biopsy are all part of the diagnosis. Management focuses on addressing the root cause, delaying the disease's course, and dealing with complications. It's very important to make adjustments to your lifestyle, such as not drinking alcohol, eating nutritious food, and checking in regularly. In more serious cases, a liver transplant may be needed. Taking steps to prevent cirrhosis, such as getting vaccinated against hepatitis and getting treated for liver illnesses early, can greatly lower the risk. Timely medical care can enhance quality of life and survival rates for individuals affected.