Expert Diagnosis and Support at Cooper
Cirrhosis is a chronic liver condition in which healthy tissue is replaced by scar tissue, permanently damaging the liver and reducing its ability to function. As cirrhosis progresses, liver failure may occur.
Why Choose Cooper for Cirrhosis of the Liver
At Cooper, our board-certified and fellowship-trained liver specialists are highly skilled in diagnosing and managing cirrhosis. We take a comprehensive approach, beginning with a detailed review of your medical history and a physical exam, followed by appropriate diagnostic testing that may include:
- Blood tests: To assess how your liver your blood’s ability to clot.
- Liver biopsy: A small sample of liver tissue is collected with a needle or during surgery and examined to determine the extent and type of liver disease.
- CT scan (computed tomography): An imaging test that produces detailed images of the bones, muscles, fat, and organs.
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): Creates clear images of liver structure and function and often involves the use of a contrast dye so the liver and other organs can be seen more clearly on the scan.
- Ultrasound: Uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs.
Causes and Risk Factors
The liver is your body’s largest internal organ, and it plays a vital role in removing waste from the body, digesting food, storing sugar needed for energy, and producing the proteins your body needs. When scar tissue builds up due to long-term damage, it interferes with these processes.
Among the common causes of cirrhosis are:
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- Chronic hepatitis C
- Chronic hepatitis B
Other contributing factors may include autoimmune liver disease, inherited metabolic disorders, or bile duct diseases.
Symptoms of Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis often progresses silently until the liver is significantly damaged. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Fluid buildup in the belly (ascites)
- Vomiting blood, often from bleeding in the blood vessels in the food pipe (esophagus)
- Gallstones
- Itching
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Kidney failure
- Muscle loss
- Loss of appetite
- Easy bruising
- Spider-like veins in the skin
- Weight loss
- Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly (due to toxins building up in the blood)
Because cirrhosis is often irreversible, regular medical follow-up is essential for early intervention.
Treatment for Cirrhosis
There is no cure for cirrhosis, but its progression can often be slowed – and sometimes partially reversed – by treating the underlying cause and adopting liver-friendly habits.
At Cooper, your treatment may include:
- Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet that is low in sodium
- Avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs
- Avoid foods that can damage your liver, like shellfish
- Managing related health issues problems that cause cirrhosis
- Referral for liver transplant evaluation in advanced cases
Our liver care team also includes dietitians who work with you to create a nutrition plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
Schedule an Appointment
To schedule an appointment with a Cooper liver specialist, please call 800.8.COOPER (800.826.6737).