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Liver cirrhosis

Symptoms of cirrhosis

You may not have any symptoms during the early stages of cirrhosis.

As your liver becomes more damaged, you may:

  • feel very tired and weak
  • feel sick (nausea)
  • lose your appetite
  • lose weight and muscle mass
  • get red patches on your palms and small, spider-like blood vessels on your skin (spider angiomas) above waist level

If cirrhosis gets worse, some of the symptoms and complications include:

  • yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
  • vomiting blood
  • itchy skin
  • dark pee and tarry-looking poo
  • bleeding or bruising easily
  • swollen legs (oedema) or tummy (ascites) from a build-up of fluid
  • loss of sex drive (libido)

See a GP if you think you may have cirrhosis.

Treating cirrhosis

There's no cure for cirrhosis at the moment. However, there are ways to manage the symptoms and any complications and slow its progression.

Treating the problem that led to cirrhosis (for example, using anti-viral medicines to treat hepatitis C) can stop cirrhosis getting worse.

You may be advised to cut down or stop drinking alcohol, or to lose weight if you're overweight. 

A GP can help you get support if you need help to stop drinking or to lose weight.

If your liver is severely damaged, a liver transplant may be the only treatment option.

What causes cirrhosis

In the UK, the most common causes of cirrhosis are:

  • drinking too much alcohol over many years
  • being infected with hepatitis for a long time, particularly hepatitis B or hepatitis C
  • a severe form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, where the liver becomes inflamed from a build-up of excess fat

Cirrhosis can also be caused by a problem affecting your bile ducts (such as primary biliary cholangitis) or immune system (such as autoimmune hepatitis), some inherited conditions, and the long-term use of certain medicines.

Drinking too much alcohol damages the liver. Over time, this can lead to alcohol-related liver disease.

Cirrhosis is the final stage of alcohol-related liver disease. It usually happens after many years of heavy drinking.

How to prevent cirrhosis

The best way to prevent alcohol-related cirrhosis is to drink within the recommended limits.

The guidelines recommend:

  • men and women should not regularly drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week
  • you should spread your drinking over 3 days, or more, if you drink as much as 14 units a week

Stop drinking alcohol immediately if you have alcohol-related cirrhosis. Drinking alcohol speeds up the rate at which cirrhosis progresses, regardless of the cause.

A GP can offer help and advice if you're finding it difficult to cut down the amount you drink. 

Read more about where to get alcohol support.

Protect yourself from hepatitis

Hepatitis B and C are infections in the liver caused by a virus.

The hepatitis B virus is spread in blood and body fluids. The hepatitis C virus is usually spread in blood.

Common ways of spreading these viruses include having sex with an infected person without using a condom, or close contact with an infected person's blood, such as sharing their toothbrush or sharing needles to inject drugs.

Vaccination for hepatitis B is part of the NHS childhood vaccination schedule. The vaccine is also available to anyone who has an increased chance of getting hepatitis B.

There is no vaccine for hepatitis C at the moment.

Aim for a healthy weight

To reduce your chance of getting non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can lead to cirrhosis, make sure you're a healthy weight by eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly.

Cirrhosis may not cause symptoms at the start. Later symptoms include feeling sick and tired, yellow skin and eyes, itchy skin and a swollen tummy.

Treatment for cirrhosis usually involves treating the cause, to stop it getting worse. Some people eventually need a liver transplant.

Common causes of cirrhosis include drinking too much alcohol, a long-term liver infection such as hepatitis B or C, and being obese.

To reduce your risk of cirrhosis, cut down on alcohol, be a healthy weight, and avoid hepatitis by using a condom during sex and not injecting drugs.

Lifestyle changes

If you have cirrhosis, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your chances of further problems and complications. These include:

  • avoid alcohol 
  • quit smoking
  • lose weight if you're overweight or obese
  • do regular exercise to reduce muscle loss
  • practise good hygiene to reduce your chance of getting infections
  • speak to a GP about vaccinations you may need, such as the annual flu vaccine or travel vaccines
  • speak to a GP or pharmacist if you're taking over-the-counter or prescription medicines, because cirrhosis can affect the way some medicines work

Malnutrition is common in people with cirrhosis, so it's important you eat a healthy, balanced diet to help you get all the nutrients you need.

Cutting down on salt can help reduce the chance of swelling in your legs, feet and tummy caused by a build-up of fluid.

The damage to your liver can mean it's unable to store glycogen, which is a type of fuel the body needs for energy.

When this happens, your muscle tissue is used for energy between meals, which leads to muscle loss and weakness. This means you may need extra calories and protein in your diet.

Eating healthy snacks between meals, or having 3 or 4 small meals each day, rather than 1 or 2 large meals, may help.

Related links

Cirrhosis

Symptoms

Treatment

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3,726 public posts

liver cirrhosis

l think you should get medical advice not trying to worry you but l had that and l had cirrhosis of the liver but it might be not that any way see a doctor it might be something small hopefully you are feeling better soon
l think you should get medical advice not trying to worry you but l had that and l had cirrhosis of the liver but it might be not that any way see a doctor it might be something small hopefully you are feeling better soon
Charlie15melissaabb profile image
Charlie15melissaabb
in British Liver Trust
30 days ago

Arld cirrhosis

I was told 2 months ago that i have cirrhosis and am trying to change my diet cutting down on sugar /salt given up alcohol I did stupidly have a few beers a week ago but going to alcohol meetings for that but will this pain in my side ever go away ?
I was told 2 months ago that i have cirrhosis and am trying to change my diet cutting down on sugar /salt given up alcohol I did stupidly have a few beers a week ago but going to alcohol meetings for that but will this pain in my side ever go away ?
Tim12 profile image
Tim12
in British Liver Trust
1 month ago

Liver cirrhosis

I have liver cirrhosis also diabetic I have had a scan and it shown fluid around my liver and stomach I have had a stomach scan for something else and it has shown fluid in my lungs I have had two lots of antibiotics in two months what should I do
I have liver cirrhosis also diabetic I have had a scan and it shown fluid around my liver and stomach I have had a stomach scan for something else and it has shown fluid in my lungs I have had two lots of antibiotics in two months what should I do
Williamsbluefamily profile image
Williamsbluefamily
in British Liver Trust
2 months ago
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Cirrhosis!

Sorry, forgot to mention, autoimmune cirrhosis rather then alcohol induced.
Sorry, forgot to mention, autoimmune cirrhosis rather then alcohol induced.
Hope1011 profile image
Hope1011
in British Liver Trust
5 months ago

Liver cirrhosis

He tells me that it’s nothing to worry about and in his exact words “well my consultant says I’ve had no further damage” Correct me if I’m wrong but when you get to liver cirrhosis any further damage is your liver failing??
He tells me that it’s nothing to worry about and in his exact words “well my consultant says I’ve had no further damage” Correct me if I’m wrong but when you get to liver cirrhosis any further damage is your liver failing??
Lookingforadvice1 profile image
Lookingforadvice1
in British Liver Trust
4 months ago

just wondering

just wondering If Cirrhosis secondary to NASH with portal hypertension is de compensated or compensated I understand that varices and Ascites are normally present with de compensated but does having the portal hypertension make a difference ?
just wondering If Cirrhosis secondary to NASH with portal hypertension is de compensated or compensated I understand that varices and Ascites are normally present with de compensated but does having the portal hypertension make a difference ?
Liver007123 profile image
Liver007123
in British Liver Trust
2 months ago

Fibroscan vs CT scan for cirrhosis diagnostics

In other words, once you remove the underlying cause, your fibroscan reading can decrease substantially compared to the original reading at the time of cirrhosis diagnosis but that doesn't necessarily mean that your cirrhosis is gone? Thank you!
In other words, once you remove the underlying cause, your fibroscan reading can decrease substantially compared to the original reading at the time of cirrhosis diagnosis but that doesn't necessarily mean that your cirrhosis is gone? Thank you!
Margolia profile image
Margolia
in British Liver Trust
5 months ago

Blood clot in portal vein

Has anyone with cirrhosis on the site had a similar experience and if so was it treated I am awaiting results of a CT scan to find out if it has resolved on it's own or needs any treatment.
Has anyone with cirrhosis on the site had a similar experience and if so was it treated I am awaiting results of a CT scan to find out if it has resolved on it's own or needs any treatment.
ballie52 profile image
ballie52
in British Liver Trust
3 months ago

Fibroscan score 19.5. Awaiting appointment with consultant

As the highest fibro scan score is 75 I am assuming that I could have early-stage cirrhosis and it might be reversible. It would be good to know the significance of the 19.5 score. Comments / advice would be appreciated. Thank you
As the highest fibro scan score is 75 I am assuming that I could have early-stage cirrhosis and it might be reversible. It would be good to know the significance of the 19.5 score. Comments / advice would be appreciated. Thank you
Grommel profile image
Grommel
in British Liver Trust
2 months ago

Husband with Liver Cirrhosis

My husband has cirrhosis for about 5 years now the Dr said a when they first found it he had a mild case he levels where a 8 a year ago he been in the hospital a few times with bleeding Varies and ascites once and once with high toxic in his blood he now takes lactose 45 ml twice a day and he take that
My husband has cirrhosis for about 5 years now the Dr said a when they first found it he had a mild case he levels where a 8 a year ago he been in the hospital a few times with bleeding Varies and ascites once and once with high toxic in his blood he now takes lactose 45 ml twice a day and he take that
Fishing49 profile image
Fishing49
in British Liver Trust
24 days ago

Can ultrasound detect cirrhosis?

GP referring me for a fibroscan and I’m really worried I might have cirrhosis. Anyone know how good ultrasound is at detecting cirrhosis??? Ive been drinking at least a bottle of wine daily for about 6 years with very few days off
GP referring me for a fibroscan and I’m really worried I might have cirrhosis. Anyone know how good ultrasound is at detecting cirrhosis??? Ive been drinking at least a bottle of wine daily for about 6 years with very few days off
Worriedwestyorks profile image
Worriedwestyorks
in British Liver Trust
5 months ago

Dumbfounded with Cirrhosis Diagnosis

I took the Healthunlocked survey and advised them that there is not enough content for people with compensated liver Cirrhosis on here SO I AM SO SORRY IF I AM SOUNDING SMUG. But in the next breath what are your thoughts?
I took the Healthunlocked survey and advised them that there is not enough content for people with compensated liver Cirrhosis on here SO I AM SO SORRY IF I AM SOUNDING SMUG. But in the next breath what are your thoughts?
55spenc profile image
55spenc
in British Liver Trust
2 months ago

Has anyone developed a hard lump with Cirrhosis

I have de compensated cirrhosis and ascities going on. Obviously I will be asking my consultant about it and I don’t expect a diagnosis here but I was curious to know if anyone developed this? It’s not sore. Thanks for any information. Ann.
I have de compensated cirrhosis and ascities going on. Obviously I will be asking my consultant about it and I don’t expect a diagnosis here but I was curious to know if anyone developed this? It’s not sore. Thanks for any information. Ann.
Chick_atee profile image
Chick_atee
in British Liver Trust
23 hours ago

Compensated cirrhosis.

Im type 2 diabetic with compensated cirrhosis (non alchoholic). I am getting some symptoms of itchy skin,pain in liver,and in my tummy. But my consultant tell me i shouldnt get any symptoms with compensated cirrhrosis,can anyone explain this please?
Im type 2 diabetic with compensated cirrhosis (non alchoholic). I am getting some symptoms of itchy skin,pain in liver,and in my tummy. But my consultant tell me i shouldnt get any symptoms with compensated cirrhrosis,can anyone explain this please?
Ksvlm profile image
Ksvlm
in British Liver Trust
6 months ago

abnormal LFT

I’ve posted several times over the last couple years convinces I have cirrhosis. All my labs and imaging has been normal other than an ultrasound a few years ago stating “mildly heterogenous liver” all scans since have noted normal appearing liver. My lfts have never been out of range until today.
I’ve posted several times over the last couple years convinces I have cirrhosis. All my labs and imaging has been normal other than an ultrasound a few years ago stating “mildly heterogenous liver” all scans since have noted normal appearing liver. My lfts have never been out of range until today.
rupertj profile image
rupertj
in British Liver Trust
10 days ago

calories or .....

Should I reduce calories and eat normal, or should I completely stay away from bread, soda, fats, cheese and sugar for second-degree cirrhosis of the liver?
Should I reduce calories and eat normal, or should I completely stay away from bread, soda, fats, cheese and sugar for second-degree cirrhosis of the liver?
amineacm profile image
amineacm
in British Liver Trust
3 months ago

severe fatty liver

I was stupid and then used the calculator on line for ast and alt and my ration was over 1.5 and put me as cirrhosis, I always assumed my reads were good, ast 23 , alt 15, albumin 40 platelets 265, now I have found out that the reads mean nothing really and can be low in cirrhosis as there is nothing
I was stupid and then used the calculator on line for ast and alt and my ration was over 1.5 and put me as cirrhosis, I always assumed my reads were good, ast 23 , alt 15, albumin 40 platelets 265, now I have found out that the reads mean nothing really and can be low in cirrhosis as there is nothing
Sophia1968 profile image
Sophia1968
in British Liver Trust
24 days ago

Ascites / Paracentesis

Stable examination demonstrating cirrhosis and portal hypertension with large volume ascites. 2. No evidence of hepatic mass. His physician assistant wrote “Stable findings compared to previous imaging. Ascites. Cirrhosis of the liver. No liver masses.”
Stable examination demonstrating cirrhosis and portal hypertension with large volume ascites. 2. No evidence of hepatic mass. His physician assistant wrote “Stable findings compared to previous imaging. Ascites. Cirrhosis of the liver. No liver masses.”
Mls1973 profile image
Mls1973
in British Liver Trust
4 months ago

Dieting with Cirrhosis

Hi I have early stage Cirrhosis and need to lose some weight. Quite a lot actually. I'm considering the Keto diet. Does anybody know if this is okay for someone with alcohol related cirrhosis. Thanks for any help you can offer
Hi I have early stage Cirrhosis and need to lose some weight. Quite a lot actually. I'm considering the Keto diet. Does anybody know if this is okay for someone with alcohol related cirrhosis. Thanks for any help you can offer
eileenet49 profile image
eileenet49
in British Liver Trust
7 months ago

Results

asked if cirrhosis was curable he said no and life span was 9-12 years so hearing today that I have cirrhosis has scared me.
asked if cirrhosis was curable he said no and life span was 9-12 years so hearing today that I have cirrhosis has scared me.
Janden12 profile image
Janden12
in British Liver Trust
7 months ago
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