A chronic liver disease characterized by the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) in the liver.
This scarring interferes with the liver's normal function, leading to a range of symptoms and complications.
Cirrhosis is commonly related to excessive alcohol use and liver disease, but it's not the only way this health condition can wreak havoc. Liver disease is also common in those with obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and long-term or chronic hepatitis C or B viruses.
While there are no ways to reverse liver damage, it is possible to treat the conditions that lead to cirrhosis and prevent further damage from occurring or leading to liver failure.
Treatment options that can help:
Portal hypertension — This condition utilizes medication to lower blood pressure in the portal vein, which carries blood from the stomach, intestines, spleen, gallbladder, and pancreas to the liver.
Reduce abdominal fluid—A buildup of fluid in the stomach is called ascites, and it responds well to treatment with medications that remove fluid from the body. It's also helpful to reduce sodium intake in your daily diet. If the fluid is excessive, it can be drained, screened for infection, and treated with medication as necessary.
Enlarged veins and bleeding in the esophagus or stomach - You may be prescribed medication to reduce blood pressure and prevent the bursting of a vein if you are experiencing internal bleeding or symptoms of internal bleeding. Those with black or bloody stools should visit the hospital right away. An upper GI endoscopy and surgical procedures may need to be performed to stabilize this condition.
Source: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/