Cirrhosis and Complications Cirrhosis is a progressive liver disease characterized by scarring and loss of liver tissue. It can be caused by various factors,...
Cirrhosis is a progressive liver disease characterized by scarring and loss of liver tissue. It can be caused by various factors, including alcohol abuse, chronic liver disease, viral hepatitis, and certain medications.
Common complications of cirrhosis include:
Liver failure: This occurs when the liver is unable to function properly and cannot remove toxins and waste products from the body.
Hemochromatosis: This condition develops when the liver takes up too much iron, leading to a condition called hemochromatosis. Symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, and joint pain.
Ascites: This is a condition in which fluid builds up in the abdomen. It can be caused by cirrhosis and is a medical emergency.
Portal hypertension: This is a condition in which blood pressure in the portal vein, which carries bile from the liver to the stomach, is higher than normal. This can lead to liver damage.
Cachexia: This is a condition in which the body's tissues are deprived of nutrients, leading to symptoms such as weakness, weight loss, and decreased muscle mass.
Jaundice: This condition is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a pigment produced when red blood cells are broken down, in the blood. Symptoms include yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Other complications that can occur with cirrhosis include:
Hepatic encephalopathy: This is a condition in which the brain is damaged by toxins and waste products from the liver. Symptoms include confusion, seizures, and difficulty walking.
Pancreatitis: This is an inflammation of the pancreas, which is an organ located in the abdomen. Symptoms include pain in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Colitis: This is an inflammation of the colon, which is the large intestine. Symptoms include diarrhea, weight loss, and abdominal pain