What is cirrhosis? what does it do? – The Daily Star

Cirrhosis is a prevalent disease worldwide. It is also known as liver cirrhosis or hepatic cirrhosis, and end-stage liver disease.

It is a late stage of scarring of the liver tissues caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions.

The scar tissues are called fibrosis. Too much fibrosis causes impaired liver function and eventually liver failure.

It means, each time your liver is injured, it tries to repair itself by forming scar tissue or fibrosis. As more and more scar tissue forms, it becomes difficult for the liver to function.

There are many causes of cirrhosis, such as obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, high alcohol consumption, hepatitis B or C infection, autoimmune diseases, cholestasis diseases, and iron or copper overload.

Its symptoms are usually slow to emerge. Early symptoms may include tiredness, weakness, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, nausea and sickness, and discomfort in one's upper right abdomen.

With declining liver function, cognitive impairments, confusion, memory loss, sleep disorders, and changes in personality may also develop.

The management of liver cirrhosis is centred on the treatment of the causes and complications. Liver transplantation can be required in some cases.

In order to reduce the risk of cirrhosis, you should eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight. Excess body fat can damage the liver.

Reduction of risk of hepatitis B and C is necessary. Never share needles or engage in unprotected sex. Get hepatitis vaccinations.

You should speak to a doctor if any of the above mentioned symptoms is noticed. Detection in the early stages of the disease makes it easier to treat.

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What is cirrhosis? what does it do? - The Daily Star