Cirrhosis of the liver is a degenerative process in which healthy liver tissue dies and tough scar tissue and nodules grow in its place. Common causes of cirrhosis include habitual alcohol abuse, biliary obstruction and hemochromatosis. Progression of the disease consists of two stages. Compensated cirrhosis describes early disease, when some of the liver still functions normally. Unfortunately, most people have no symptoms during this stage. Decompensated cirrhosis describes the end stage, in which most of the liver is destroyed and symptoms and complications become severe.
Weight Loss
The liver processes and metabolizes many of the nutrients, foods and medications we eat. During the early stages of cirrhosis, this process may already be altered. As a result, malnutrition often occurs, and many vital nutrients are lost. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that weight loss commonly occurs with compensated cirrhosis. Loss of appetite also causes further weight loss. According to "Medical Surgical Nursing," nausea, indigestion and bloating often occur with cirrhosis.
Osteoperosis
Osteoporosis, or bone degeneration, often occurs due to malnutrition from liver cirrhosis. The American Academy of Family Physicians reports that vitamin D is not well absorbed and as a result calcium deficiency occurs. Weakening of the bones increases the risk for fracture, and osteoarthritis may also occur.
Weakness and Fatigue
Often vague symptoms such as weakness and fatigue occur in the early stages of cirrhosis. The inability of the liver to process nutrients also affects energy levels. Malnourishment due to altered metabolism and loss of appetite cause fatigue and weakness. In addition, anemia caused by cirrhosis often contributes to and worsens fatigue.
Spider Veins
Spider veins often occur on the upper part of the body in the early stages of cirrhosis. They typically appear on the arms, face and abdomen. At first only one small spider vein may occur, with the number and size increasing as the disease progresses. The American Academy of Family Physicians reports that the number and size of of spider veins relates to the severity of the disease.
References
- "Medical Surgical Nursing"; Ignatavicius, D., MSN; Workman, L., Ph.D.; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cirrhosis
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Cirrhosis and Chronic Liver Failure Part I
