Cirrhosis living day to day patient overview

Overview

Cirrhosis is a condition where the liver becomes scarred and damaged over time. This scarring makes it harder for the liver to work properly.

Cirrhosis is fairly common, especially among people with long-term liver damage from heavy alcohol use or chronic hepatitis.

It mainly affects adults, but can occur at any age. People with a history of liver disease, heavy drinking, or certain infections are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite and nausea
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen

Symptoms in children

• Poor growth or weight gain
• Jaundice that does not go away
• Vomiting blood

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or trouble thinking clearly
• Increased fatigue
• Fluid buildup in the abdomen or legs

Causes

Main causes

• Long-term heavy alcohol use
• Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (often linked to obesity and diabetes)

Risk factors

• Being overweight or obese
• Type 2 diabetes
• Long-term use of certain medications (like methotrexate)
• Family history of liver disease

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any of the emergency symptoms listed above
• If you notice new or worsening jaundice
• If you experience severe abdominal pain

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have risk factors for cirrhosis, such as heavy drinking or hepatitis
• If you have ongoing fatigue, nausea, or unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose cirrhosis using a combination of blood tests, imaging scans, and sometimes a liver biopsy (a small sample of liver tissue).

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check liver function and look for signs of damage
• Ultrasound or other imaging scans to see the liver's size and structure
• FibroScan (a special ultrasound to measure liver stiffness)
• Liver biopsy (removing a tiny piece of liver for testing)

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and any symptoms. If cirrhosis is suspected, you will be referred to a specialist (gastroenterologist or hepatologist) who will order the needed tests.

Treatment

Treatment for cirrhosis focuses on slowing the liver damage, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. It does not cure the scarring, but can help you feel better and live longer.

Self-care at home

• Stop drinking alcohol completely
• Eat a balanced, low-salt diet
• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B
• Avoid medications that can harm the liver (ask your doctor or pharmacist)

Medical treatments

Doctors may prescribe medications to control symptoms like itching, fluid buildup, or high blood pressure in the liver. They will also treat the underlying cause, for example with antiviral medicine for hepatitis. Regular blood tests and scans will monitor your condition.

When is surgery considered?

In advanced cases where the liver is failing, a liver transplant may be considered. This is a major surgery and requires careful evaluation.

Living with this condition

Living with cirrhosis means managing fatigue, following a healthy diet, taking any prescribed medications, and having regular check-ups. Avoid alcohol and talk to your doctor before taking any new medicines or supplements.

Lifestyle tips

• Rest when you feel tired
• Stay active with gentle exercises like walking
• Wash hands often to avoid infections
• Get regular check-ups and vaccinations

Diet and exercise

Eat a low-salt diet to reduce fluid buildup. Have small, frequent meals that are rich in protein and vegetables. Avoid raw seafood and undercooked meat. Gentle exercise, like short walks, can help maintain strength and mood.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with a chronic condition can cause anxiety, sadness, or stress. It is important to talk to your doctor or a counsellor about how you feel. You are not alone.

Prevention

In many cases, cirrhosis can be prevented by avoiding excessive alcohol, getting vaccinated against hepatitis, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing conditions like diabetes.

Vaccines

Vaccines for hepatitis A and B are recommended for people with liver disease or at risk.

Screening programmes

If you have risk factors (such as heavy drinking, obesity, or hepatitis), talk to your doctor about regular liver check-ups.

Complications

If left untreated

• Liver failure (when the liver stops working)
• Internal bleeding from swollen veins in the esophagus or stomach
• Frequent infections
• Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
• Liver cancer

Long-term outlook

While cirrhosis cannot be reversed, early treatment and lifestyle changes can slow the damage and help you live a good quality of life for many years. Many people manage their condition well with proper care and support.

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