Cirrhosis is characterized as being a disease of the liver. The liver stops functioning properly, and then takes on the appearance of an unhealthy scarred liver. Cirrhosis is most common in those who have consumed a significant amount of alcohol over the years, or individuals with hepatitis C. There have been a steadily increase of obese people with cirrhosis. Usually people with cirrhosis have other underlying factors of liver disease.
Individuals with cirrhosis can help other complications due to the disease. A lot of individuals will experience jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin and eyes. Individuals may find that they bruise easily. Their blood will stop clotting properly, causing more free bleeding. It can also cause edema, which is the body retaining fluid. There are many other complications of cirrhosis. Some which can possibly lead to death.
Some of the symptoms of cirrhosis are; loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain and swelling. There are many other symptoms, and just because individuals experience these symptoms does not mean they have cirrhosis. There are medical test which have to be performed by a physician. A physician will have blood work, and a physical exam done on the individual to check the liver. They may also have x-rays of the liver taken. This is the only way to receive a proper diagnosis.
Once individuals are diagnosed with cirrhosis, they will need to discuss treatment with their physician. Depending upon how advance the cirrhosis is, and the cause of it, will determine the method of treatment. Individuals will be asked to change their diet; they may also be given medications to alleviate some of the pain. They will not be able to consume any alcoholic beverages. It is imperative to slow up or stop the cirrhosis from doing any more damage to the liver.
Many individuals may not know they have cirrhosis, until they are dealing with complications from the disease. That is why, it is always important to keep scheduled physical examinations. As always if you are experiencing any abnormal changes in your body, make an appointment to see your physician.