Chronic liver disease destroys liver tissue over time. Cirrhosis is a disease with irreversible damage caused by alcoholism or hepatitis, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Fibrosis of the liver is a chronic disease resulting from abnormal thickening and scarring of liver tissue following injury, infection, lack of oxygen or surgery. Acute liver failure can be caused by an overdose of acetaminophen, prescription medications, hepatitis, toxins, vascular diseases or cancer.
Cirrhosis
Symptoms of cirrhosis may vary with each person, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Mild cirrhosis may begin with no symptoms, and people may appear to be healthy for years. About one-third of people with cirrhosis never develop symptoms, the Merck Manuals states. Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, and gallstones may result. Hair loss, itching, redness of the palms, salivary gland enlargement in the cheeks, shrinking of testes and small spider veins in the skin can develop. Impaired liver function can lead to a lack of absorption of necessary nutrients. Weakness, poor appetite and weight loss are signs. People with cirrhosis may cough up or vomit blood. In cases that involve alcoholism, the drinking of alcohol must stop to prevent further damage.
Advanced Cirrhosis
Bleeding can become common with advanced stages of cirrhosis, the Merck Manuals notes. The body will bleed easily because vitamin K is poorly absorbed with the disease. Platelets, which help with blood clotting, decrease in the blood to cause more bleeding. Bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract may cause anemia. High blood pressure from the disease may form veins in the esophagus and stomach. People may vomit blood. Impaired liver function can cause fluid accumulation in the abdomen, kidney failure and deteriorating brain function. Abnormal nerve function and muscle loss may occur for many people with the disease. A buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity, breast enlargement in men and curling of fingers are possible symptoms. Muscles may waste away. The liver can shrink and also enlarge. Liver cancer can also develop from the disease.
Acute Liver Failure
Jaundice is often a symptom of acute liver failure, the Mayo Clinic explains. Tenderness in the upper right area of the abdomen may occur because of fluid buildup. Nausea, vomiting and a sense of illness can be a problem. Acute liver failure may result in mental difficulties such as an inability to concentrate, not being able to make decisions or showing signs of confusion. Muscle tremors may occur. Insomnia can also result from liver failure.
