1. Watch for Changes in Complexion and Physique
Noticing changes that may occur in your appearance can help you spot the symptoms of cirrhosis, an irreversible condition that results from liver disease. Jaundice is a main symptom of cirrhosis, and causes your skin and the whites of your eyes to take on a yellowish cast. You may find that you bruise easily and have small, red spider veins that are caused by bleeding of the blood vessels under your skin. You might find that you've lost a lot of weight very quickly, yet your extremities are bloated from edema. Men who have cirrhosis due to liver disease can develop breasts, a condition called gynecomastia.
2. Heed Abdominal Symptoms
Pay attention to the abdominal and gastrointestinal symptoms of cirrhosis that you may experience. Nausea, vomiting and indigestion are not unusual for people who have cirrhosis. You might find blood in your stool that is coming from your intestines or esophagus. On the other end of the spectrum, you may have very pale-colored stools at times, because your body is not ridding itself of red blood cells, causing you to have jaundice. Ask your doctor to examine your spleen and liver manually to determine whether you're having swelling or fluid buildup (called ascites) in your abdomen. Your doctor may need to use an X-ray to confirm ascites.
3. Monitor Mental Confusion
You may find that you are often confused, can't concentrate on your job or other activities, and are very tired. Cirrhosis can cause all of these symptoms, as well as the physical discomforts. If you are feeling confused and show other signs of liver disease, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible to have an evaluation. Though cirrhosis caused by liver damage can't be reversed, its progression can be slowed with appropriate treatment.
