Cirrhosis is a late stage of liver damage characterized by extensive scarring of the liver tissue. It occurs when the liver is repeatedly injured, leading to the replacement of healthy liver cells with scar tissue. This process can result from various causes, including chronic liver diseases like hepatitis B and C, alcoholic liver disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. As cirrhosis progresses, it can severely affect liver function and overall health.
Cirrhosis is important to understand because it can lead to serious health complications, including liver failure, portal hypertension, and an increased risk of liver cancer. The liver plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, such as processing nutrients, filtering toxins, and producing important proteins. When cirrhosis occurs, these functions can be impaired, leading to a variety of health issues.
The liver is essential for digestion and metabolism, helping to break down food and store energy. It also produces bile, which helps digest fats. When cirrhosis develops, the liver's ability to perform these functions diminishes, resulting in problems like fluid buildup in the abdomen, difficulty in blood clotting, and changes in hormone levels. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and swelling in the legs and abdomen.
It is important to recognize the signs of cirrhosis and seek medical advice early, as early intervention can help manage complications and slow the progression of the disease. Regular monitoring and lifestyle changes may help support liver health, even in the presence of underlying liver disease.