The liver is responsible for a variety of functions within the body. Although the liver has tremendous regenerative abilities and can heal itself, if it becomes too damaged it can become scarred, also known as liver cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis causes the liver's functions to be impaired, leading to a variety of effects.
Portal Hypertension
One effect of liver cirrhosis, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), is called portal hypertension. The liver receives blood via the portal vein; liver damage can impede blood flow through this vein. Because the portal vein drains blood from the spleen, this can cause the spleen to enlarge (splenomegaly) as blood accumulates within the spleen. Portal hypertension can also lead to the development of enlarged blood vessels (called varices) in the stomach and esophagus. These varices can rupture, leading to massive internal bleeding.
Decreased Toxin and Drug Metabolism
One of the functions of the liver is to clear toxins out of the blood. When liver function is disrupted as a result of liver cirrhosis, these toxins gradually accumulate in the blood. This can ultimately result in a condition known as hepatic encephalopathy, which is the result of the toxins causing brain damage. Hepatic encephalopathy can cause confusion, trouble thinking and ultimately a coma. Because the liver also metabolizes many different drugs, patients may be more sensitive to some prescription medications and may need to have their doses adjusted to avoid serious side effects.
Jaundice
Another effect of liver cirrhosis, according to Medline, is jaundice. The liver is responsible for removing a protein called bilirubin from the blood. If bilirubin metabolism falls, it can lead to bilirubin accumulation, causing yellowing of the skin as well as the whites of the eyes.
Bleeding Disorders
The liver is also responsible for making proteins that are essential to blood clotting. Liver cirrhosis prevents the liver from carrying out this function, leading to the development of bleeding disorders, meaning that the blood does not clot properly. This can also lead to easy bruising.
Diabetes
The liver is also important for the regulation of blood glucose levels. When there is an excess of glucose in the blood, the liver imports some of it and turns it into glycogen, which represents a reserve of glucose. Liver disease can prevent the liver from uptaking glucose, leading to elevated blood glucose levels and type II diabetes.
