Cirrhosis is the scarred state of the liver seen near the end stages of liver failure. The liver is damaged irreparably on a cellular level, rendering it unable to perform its very necessary functions of detoxification, blood purification, and nutrient conversion, among other things. Here’s a look at the symptoms of cirrhosis.
Visible Signs
According to the Mayo CLinic, a variety of symptoms can be indicative of cirrhosis, caused by the lost nutrients, excess toxins in the blood, and lowered efficiency of other functions of the liver. Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, is a sign often associated with liver conditions. You may feel tired, nauseated, and have a low appetite leading to weight loss.
You may bruise and bleed easily because of the heavier demand placed on veins or develop itchy patches of skin. Blood vessels may develop a spidery appearance and the palms of the hands often turn red. Additionally, men may notice their breasts become larger while their testicles become smaller.
Portal Hypertension
It can take a considerable amount of liver damage before cirrhosis becomes evident. The scarring forms as the liver is damaged and attempts to repair itself. New cells that form create “regenerative nodules.” Additionally, the liver receives the vast majority of its blood supply from veins, rather than arteries. The blood supply has a close connection with the original liver cells that purify it; the regenerative nodules, however, aren’t as connected with the body’s blood, interfering with the processes of purification and nutrient insertion.
The scar tissue also obstructs blood movement in particular veins carrying “cleansed” blood to the heart, backing the blood up and causing portal hypertension. This blood attempts to find alternate routes back to the heart, which means it misses out on the purification provided by the liver. This can cause the legs and abdomen to swell (conditions called “edema” and “ascites”). The spleen may also become engorged, interfering with levels of white blood cells and platelets.
Complications
As these toxins build up, they can cause considerable issues. Hepatic encephalopathy is the buildup of toxins in the brain, which may leave you feeling confused or having difficulty with speech. The interference with appetite and nutrient storage and distribution can lead to malnutrition, a state where the body is virtually lacking in nearly every vital nutrient.
Jaundice develops from too much bilirubin, a waste product in the blood; the bones may become weak and subject to breaks because of lost strength. Additionally, the risk of cancer and potentially the failure of other organs is higher when liver diseases reach the point of cirrhosis and liver failure.
