When the liver is sick: What is cirrhosis of the liver?

Cirrhosis of the liver is a condition we hear about often, yet many people don’t fully understand it. It's crucial to be aware of the impact of this disease in order to better prevent and treat it. In this article, we’ll cover what cirrhosis is, its causes and symptoms, and the complications it can lead to. 

The liver: An important organ

The liver is one of the largest organs in the human body, roughly the size of a football. Located on the right side of the abdomen, it plays a critical role in several vital functions. It aids digestion by producing bile, regulates blood clotting, and metabolizes toxins, alcohol, and various medications. Given its crucial role, liver dysfunction can have serious consequences for overall health.

What is cirrhosis of the liver?

Cirrhosis develops when the liver is subjected to long-term stress, often over the course of several years. In response, the liver tries to repair itself, but the scarring becomes excessive. Over time, scar tissue replaces healthy tissue, hindering the liver's ability to function properly. In advanced stages, this process can lead to complete liver failure.

What are the symptoms of cirrhosis of the liver?

What makes cirrhosis particularly insidious is that many people may go years without experiencing any symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they can vary and may include:

• Persistent fatigue
• Loss of appetite and significant weight loss
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abdominal swelling (ascites)
• Purplish-red rash and itching

These symptoms, although indicative, often only become noticeable once the disease is in an advanced stage, underscoring the importance of early detection.

What causes cirrhosis?

In developed countries, the primary causes of cirrhosis are well-known. These include:

• Excessive alcohol consumption: This is one of the most common causes. Chronic alcohol consumption can gradually damage the liver.
• Chronic hepatitis C: If left untreated, this viral infection can persist for months or even years, causing severe liver damage.
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver (or metabolic steatohepatitis, MASH): This condition is common in overweight people, those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, and those with high cholesterol. It results from an accumulation of fat in the liver, leading to inflammation and, eventually, scarring.

What are the possible complications?

If left untreated, cirrhosis can lead to several potentially serious complications. These include:

• Ascites: Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen can cause an infection and lead to peritonitis.
• Osteoporosis: A diseased liver can result in a vitamin D deficiency, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones.
• Coagulation disorders: The liver plays a crucial role in producing coagulation factors. Liver dysfunction can lead to excessive bleeding.
• Hepatic encephalopathy: When the liver no longer properly eliminates toxins from the blood, they can accumulate and affect the brain, causing confusion, memory impairment and, in severe cases, coma.
• Portal hypertension: Increased pressure in the portal vein (which carries blood to the liver) can lead to further complications, such as gastrointestinal bleeding.

Finally, the natural progression of cirrhosis can lead to end-stage liver failure, where the liver can no longer carry out its functions. In some cases, cirrhosis may also progress into liver cancer. If left untreated, these complications can be fatal.

Are there any treatments?

It's crucial to understand that the damage caused by cirrhosis is, in the majority of cases, irreversible. However, treatments are available to slow the progression of the disease and alleviate certain symptoms.

• Hepatitis treatment: If cirrhosis is caused by chronic hepatitis, antiviral drugs can help control the infection and limit liver damage.
• Symptom management: Treatments can be administered to alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, itching or bleeding disorders. In some cases, diuretics may be prescribed to reduce fluid accumulation in the abdomen.

The key is to take action early before cirrhosis becomes severe. This means addressing the underlying causes as soon as possible, whether by reducing alcohol consumption, managing diabetes, or treating viral hepatitis. It’s also crucial for anyone with cirrhosis to avoid alcohol entirely, regardless of the cause, to prevent further aggravation.

In conclusion...

Liver cirrhosis is a serious disease, but it is largely preventable. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, monitoring alcohol consumption and promptly treating viral infections such as hepatitis, it is possible to protect the liver and prevent the onset of this pathology. Early detection can make all the difference, helping to slow or even halt the progression of the disease before it becomes irreversible.