What is Cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease that occurs as a result of long-term damage to the liver and replacement of normal liver tissue with fibrosis (scar tissue) and regenerative nodules. Common causes of cirrhosis include chronic alcohol use, viral hepatitis (especially Hepatitis B and C), and fatty liver disease. As it progresses, liver function deteriorates and complications can occur, including liver failure, ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdomen), and internal bleeding. It may not show symptoms in the early stages of cirrhosis; In later stages, symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss and jaundice may occur.
Cirrhosis Treatment
Treatment for cirrhosis varies depending on the cause of the disease and the severity of symptoms and generally aims to slow the progression of the disease, manage complications, and relieve symptoms. In alcohol-induced cirrhosis, it is essential to stop alcohol consumption. Antiviral drugs are used for viral hepatitis. Diet and lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes liver transplantation may be required to support liver function. For fluid retention (ascites), diuretics and a low-salt diet are recommended. Hospital treatment may be required for liver failure and other serious complications. Regular medical follow-up of patients with cirrhosis is important.
Causes of Cirrhosis
The most common causes of cirrhosis include long-term excessive alcohol use, viral hepatitis (especially Hepatitis B and C), and fatty liver disease. Genetic factors and other liver diseases can also lead to cirrhosis.
Symptoms of Cirrhosis
Symptoms of cirrhosis develop gradually and can increase in severity. These include fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, jaundice, fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites), and easy bruising or bleeding.
Diagnosis of Cirrhosis
The diagnosis of cirrhosis is made with the patient's medical history, physical examination, blood tests and liver function tests. If necessary, imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT, MRI and liver biopsy may be performed.
Cirrhosis and Lifestyle
It is important for patients with cirrhosis to adopt a healthy lifestyle. This includes avoiding alcohol consumption, following a balanced, low-salt diet and regular medical monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cirrhosis
The most common causes of cirrhosis include long-term excessive alcohol use, viral hepatitis (especially Hepatitis B and C), and fatty liver disease. In some cases, genetic factors and autoimmune diseases can also cause cirrhosis.
Symptoms of cirrhosis may include fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, jaundice, fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites), easy bruising or bleeding, and swelling in the legs.
Cirrhosis itself cannot be completely cured, but it is possible to slow its progression and manage complications. Treatment varies depending on the cause of the disease and the severity of symptoms.
Complications of cirrhosis may include liver failure, fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites), internal bleeding, liver cancer, and various health problems that affect other organs.
Diagnosis of cirrhosis is made through medical history, physical examination, blood tests and liver function tests. If necessary, imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT, MRI and liver biopsy may be performed.
