In someone with cirrhosis, liver injuries cause scar tissue to replace normal, healthy tissue in the liver. This eMedTV article lists causes of the disease (such as hepatitis C) and explains how the scarring keeps the liver from working properly.
Causes of cirrhosis can include hepatitis C, chronic alcoholism, and congestive heart failure. This eMedTV page explores these and other possible cirrhosis causes -- including certain drugs that can lead to cirrhosis (such as birth control pills).
Early symptoms of cirrhosis can include fatigue, nausea, and weakness. This page on the eMedTV Web site also provides an overview of late cirrhosis symptoms (such as personality changes, intense itching, and a slowing of mental function).
As this eMedTV article explains, a doctor will begin a cirrhosis diagnosis by taking the patient's medical history and performing a physical exam. Among the other tests that may be involved in diagnosing cirrhosis are MRIs and CAT scans.
Among the treatment options for cirrhosis are lifestyle changes, medications, and a liver transplant. This eMedTV segment discusses these cirrhosis treatments in more detail, as well as some remedies for cirrhosis complications that may occur.
Several complications are possible with cirrhosis. Among the cirrhosis complications covered in this part of the eMedTV archives are gallstones, toxins in the blood or brain, bruising and bleeding, and sensitivity to medication.
This eMedTV page explains that people with cirrhosis should eat heart-healthy foods and limit fat intake, just like those without the condition. This page also outlines some special requirements of a diet for cirrhosis (such as limiting salt intake).
This eMedTV segment provides a list of suggestions for preventing cirrhosis, including avoiding alcohol and illegal (street) drugs, trying to keep your weight in the normal range, and seeing your doctor if you have viral hepatitis.
