What are the symptoms of cirrhosis?
Many people with cirrhosis may not feel symptoms early on. However, as the condition gets worse, they might experience:
- Feeling very tired or weak
- Weight loss without trying
- Swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen
- Itchy skin
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Nausea or loss of appetite
What causes cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis can be caused by several factors, including:
- Long-term heavy drinking
- Chronic viral infections, such as hepatitis B or C
- Fatty liver disease, which can happen with obesity and diabetes
- Autoimmune diseases that affect the liver
- Certain medications and chemicals that harm the liver
How common is cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is a common condition, particularly in individuals who drink alcohol heavily or have chronic liver diseases. It can affect people of all ages.
Who is more likely to get cirrhosis?
Some people are at higher risk of developing cirrhosis, including those who:
- Drink large amounts of alcohol regularly
- Have hepatitis B or C infections
- Are overweight or have obesity-related liver damage
- Have a family history of liver disease
How can I treat cirrhosis?
While cirrhosis cannot be completely reversed, treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent further damage. Options may include:
- Avoiding alcohol and harmful substances
- Medication to treat any underlying issues, such as viral infections
- Healthy diet and lifestyle changes
- In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary
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How to live with cirrhosis?
Living with cirrhosis means managing your health carefully, which may include:
- Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider
- Following a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol
- Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight
- Being aware of any changes in symptoms and reporting them
What support is available for people with cirrhosis?
People with cirrhosis can access support groups, counselling, and resources from healthcare professionals. These can help with managing the condition and improving quality of life.
How quickly can I recover from cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is a long-term condition, so recovery can vary based on the severity of liver damage. Treating underlying causes can help improve health over time.
What’s the outlook for cirrhosis?
The outlook for people with cirrhosis depends on how early it is diagnosed and how well it is managed. With proper care, many people can live for years, but cirrhosis can lead to serious complications if not treated.
Final thoughts
Cirrhosis is a serious liver condition, but with the right care and lifestyle choices, it can be managed. If you are concerned about your health or liver function, it’s important to speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
