Cirrhosis is the result of long-standing injury to the liver that causes scarring (fibrosis) and alters normal liver structure and function. This page summarizes common causes, typical signs and complications, how cirrhosis is evaluated, and which specialists may be involved in care. If you notice fast worsening or emergency signs, seek urgent medical attention.
Cirrhosis develops when repeated or continuous liver injury leads to replacement of healthy tissue with scar tissue. As scarring increases, the liver’s ability to filter blood, make proteins and perform metabolic tasks declines. Advanced cirrhosis may be associated with fluid accumulation in the abdomen, bleeding tendencies and changes in brain function related to liver failure. The pace of progression varies with the underlying cause.
Frequent causes include chronic viral hepatitis (especially hepatitis B and C), long-term heavy alcohol use, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), and chronic biliary disorders. Certain inherited conditions and ongoing inflammatory diseases can also lead to cirrhosis. Some medications and toxins increase risk. Contributing factors include obesity, diabetes, persistent viral infection and sustained high alcohol intake.
Early cirrhosis may cause mild or nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, reduced appetite and mild abdominal fullness. As cirrhosis advances, people may develop jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), abdominal fluid (ascites), swelling in the legs, easy bruising or bleeding, itching, weight loss and changes in skin appearance. Possible complications include bleeding from enlarged veins in the esophagus (variceal bleeding), infection risk, kidney function changes and hepatic encephalopathy (brain function changes). Urgent assessment is advised for vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, sudden confusion or reduced consciousness, severe abdominal pain, sudden shortness of breath or rapidly worsening jaundice.
Diagnosis and monitoring combine medical history and physical exam with blood tests, imaging (ultrasound, CT or MRI) and, when indicated, liver stiffness measurement (elastography) or biopsy. Hepatology or gastroenterology specialists typically coordinate diagnosis and long-term follow-up. Depending on findings, care may also involve infectious disease specialists, surgeons or liver transplant teams. Ongoing follow-up focuses on detecting complications early and coordinating specialist care.
Managing cirrhosis centers on controlling the underlying cause and reducing complication risks. General measures include avoiding alcohol, following a balanced diet, limiting excess salt to reduce fluid retention, and optimising control of conditions such as diabetes. Vaccinations and infection-prevention strategies are considered when appropriate. These measures can influence disease course but should be discussed with specialists to fit individual needs.
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