Causes and symptoms
In the U.S., alcohol and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease are leading causes, along with hepatitis C and hepatitis B. Early, compensated cirrhosis often has no symptoms. Decompensated cirrhosis brings fluid in the belly (ascites), jaundice, bleeding varices, and confusion from hepatic encephalopathy. Red palms and spider-like blood vessels are other clues.
Diagnosis and care
Blood tests, ultrasound, and elastography (FibroScan) diagnose and stage it. Treating the cause is key: antivirals for hepatitis, and complete abstinence for alcohol-related disease. Eat enough protein to prevent muscle loss and cut sodium to limit fluid buildup. Because liver cancer risk is high, guidelines recommend ultrasound every 6 months.
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
FAQ
- Can cirrhosis be reversed?
- Removing the cause early can improve some scarring, but advanced cirrhosis is managed rather than cured; transplant is an option for some.
- Are liver detox supplements helpful?
- No. Unproven herbs and supplements can actually injure the liver; check with your doctor.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-26
References
- Ginès, P., et al. (2021). Liver cirrhosis. The Lancet, 398(10308), 1359–1376.
- European Association for the Study of the Liver. (2018). EASL clinical practice guidelines for the management of patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Journal of Hepatology, 69(2), 406–460.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Cirrhosis. NIDDK.