Liver cirrhosis is a late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by long-term liver damage and
inflammation. The liver damage done by cirrhosis can’t be undone, but if liver cirrhosis is diagnosed
early and the cause is treated, further damage can be limited and, very rarely, reversed.
Cirrhosis can be caused by various factors, including chronic alcohol use, viral hepatitis, fatty liver
disease, and other conditions that affect the liver. As the liver becomes scarred and damaged, it loses its
ability to function properly.
Treatment for liver cirrhosis includes:
1. Treating the Underlying Cause: Identifying and addressing the cause of cirrhosis is essential. For
example, this may involve alcohol cessation for alcoholic cirrhosis, antiviral medications for viral
hepatitis, or weight loss and lifestyle changes for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
2. Symptom Management: Medications and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and
complications, such as ascites (abdominal fluid buildup), varices (enlarged veins in the
esophagus or stomach), and hepatic encephalopathy (brain dysfunction due to liver disease).
3. Nutritional Support: A proper diet, often low in sodium, may be recommended to manage fluid
retention and malnutrition.
4. Monitoring: Regular check-ups are important to assess the progression of cirrhosis and to catch
and treat complications early.
5. Liver Transplant: In severe cases where the liver is severely damaged and other treatments are
ineffective, a liver transplant may be necessary. This involves replacing the damaged liver with a
healthy donor liver.
The course of treatment for liver cirrhosis depends on the stage of the disease and the individual’s
specific condition. It’s crucial for individuals with cirrhosis to work closely with healthcare professionals
to manage their condition and to follow recommended lifestyle changes.