Cirrhosis is a late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions, such as hepatitis and chronic alcoholism. Each time your liver is injured, it tries to repair itself. In the process, scar tissue forms. As the cirrhosis progresses, more and more scar tissue forms, making it difficult for the liver to function.

Symptoms:

1. Fatigue: A common symptom, often related to the liver’s reduced ability to store and release energy.
2. Easy Bruising and Bleeding: Cirrhosis can lead to a decrease in blood-clotting factors, resulting in easy bruising and bleeding.
3. Swelling: Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (ascites) or swelling in the legs and ankles (edema) due to impaired fluid regulation.

4. Itchy Skin: Bile buildup in the bloodstream can cause itching.
5. Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to impaired bilirubin processing.
6. Confusion: Known as hepatic encephalopathy, it can lead to confusion, forgetfulness, and impaired concentration.
7. Muscle Wasting: Loss of muscle mass, especially in the arms and legs.
8. Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss due to a combination of factors, including reduced appetite.

Causes:

1. Chronic Alcoholism: Excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic cirrhosis.
2. Chronic Viral Hepatitis: Chronic infection with hepatitis B, C, or other hepatitis viruses can cause cirrhosis.
3. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Accumulation of fat in the liver, often associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome.
4. Autoimmune Hepatitis: The immune system mistakenly attacks the liver, causing inflammation and scarring.
5. Biliary Cirrhosis: Damage to the bile ducts, such as in primary biliary cholangitis, can lead to cirrhosis.
6. Genetic Disorders: Inherited conditions like hemochromatosis (excessive iron absorption) or Wilson’s disease (copper buildup) can cause cirrhosis.
7. Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH): A more severe form of NAFLD, characterized by inflammation and liver cell damage.
8. Chronic Heart Failure: Long-term heart failure can lead to congestion in the liver, causing cirrhosis.

Types:

1. Compensated Cirrhosis: The liver still functions reasonably well despite the presence of cirrhosis, and symptoms may be minimal.
2. Decompensated Cirrhosis: The liver’s ability to function is significantly impaired, leading to the manifestation of symptoms and complications such as ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and variceal bleeding.

Cirrhosis is a serious condition, and early detection and management are crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes. Regular medical follow-ups, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to prescribed treatments are essential components of managing cirrhosis.