A healthy liver has many essential functions such as purifying the blood, manufacturing nutrients and detoxifying harmful substances in the body. Over time, certain conditions such as alcohol abuse, cystic fibrosis and hepatitis B and C can scar and damage the liver, according to MayoClinic.com. As the liver is damaged, it tries to repair itself, producing scar tissue. This scarring is referred to as cirrhosis; when this condition is present, the liver is unable to function properly. As liver function decreases, the development of other complications can occur.
Portal Hypertension
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, or NDDIC, cirrhosis slows the normal flow of blood that is carried from the intestines and spleen through the portal vein to the liver. This causes increased pressure in the portal vein, called portal hypertension. The blood can then be redirected to smaller veins near the liver, which may become overwhelmed and burst causing severe bleeding. Portal hypertension can cause elevated pressure in other areas such as the stomach, termed gastric varices, and the esophagus, termed esophageal varices.
Hepatic Encephalopathy
When the liver is damaged, it cannot efficiently remove toxins in the blood, according to MayoClinic.com. These toxins can build up in the brain causing hepatic encephalopathy, which is characterized by a decrease in mental function, confusion and difficulty concentrating. Hepatic encephalopathy can lead to unresponsiveness or coma, so any change in mental status should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately.
Excess Fluid Build-up
According to the NDDIC, increased liver damage can lead to excess fluid build-up in the body. When fluid collects in the extremities, it is known as edema. When fluid builds up in the abdomen, it is known as ascites. Ascites is dangerous as the excess fluid can lead to bacterial peritonitis, an infection in the lining of the abdomen.
Increased Risk of Serious Illness
Those with cirrhosis are at an increased risk for developing liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma, according to the NDDIC. Cirrhosis also increases the risk for developing infections due to immune system dysfunction. Also, kidney and lung failure, known as hepatorenal and hepatopulmonary syndromes, can also be caused by cirrhosis.
