Track 33: Liver Cirrhosis and Complications

Liver cirrhosis is a chronic disease that causes permanent scarring of the liver. Complications of cirrhosis include: 

Ascites: Fluid buildup in the abdomen or lower body

Hepatic encephalopathy: Loss of brain function

Portal hypertension: High blood pressure in the portal vein

Variceal bleeding: Veins in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines rupture and bleed

Liver cancer: Tumors or masses in the liver or biliary tract

Other complications include: 

Peritonitis, a serious infection in the space around the liver and intestines

Edema, swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet

Jaundice, yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes

Itchy skin

Bleeding or bruising easily

Loss of sex drive

Symptoms 

Fatigue

Loss of appetite

Nausea

Weight loss

Spiderlike blood vessels on the skin

Redness in the palms of the hands

Pale fingernails

Clubbing of the fingers

Confusion, drowsiness, or slurred speech

Treatment

Treatments for complications of cirrhosis include endoscopic sclerotherapy, TIPS, and surgery.