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Cirrhosis of the Liver
Cirrhosis is a condition characterized by large areas of scar tissue on the liver. It is often the result of many long-term liver diseases, such as different forms of hepatitis or medical conditions people are born with (these are called congenital conditions).
Other causes of cirrhosis include:
- Infections
- Drug and/or alcohol abuse
- A blocked bile duct.
Unfortunately, the scarring is permanent. However, treatment can stop or slow down further progression and reduce complications. Regardless of the method used, it is important to avoid alcohol, since this will only cause more liver damage.
Common symptoms of cirrhosis include:
- Loss of appetite
- Exhaustion
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain).
(To learn more about this liver condition, including additional symptoms and how the disease is diagnosed, click Cirrhosis.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD