Liver Cirrhosis
1. Fatigue and weakness: Persistent fatigue and weakness are common symptoms of liver cirrhosis. As the liver’s ability to metabolize nutrients and produce energy is impaired, individuals may feel tired and lacking in energy.
2. Jaundice: Jaundice occurs when the liver is unable to process bilirubin properly, resulting in a yellowing of the skin and eyes. It is a common symptom of liver cirrhosis.
3. Ascites: Ascites refers to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Liver cirrhosis can lead to increased pressure in the blood vessels of the liver, causing fluid to leak into the abdomen. This can result in abdominal swelling and discomfort.
4. Edema: Liver cirrhosis can lead to fluid retention, causing swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet.
5. Easy bruising and bleeding: The liver produces clotting factors that help control bleeding. When the liver is damaged, the production of these clotting factors may be reduced, resulting in easy bruising and bleeding.
6. Itchy skin: Liver dysfunction can lead to a buildup of bile salts in the blood, which can cause itching and irritation of the skin.
7. Gastrointestinal bleeding: Cirrhosis can cause the development of varices, which are enlarged and fragile blood vessels in the esophagus and stomach. These varices can rupture and cause gastrointestinal bleeding, resulting in bloody vomit or black, tarry stools.
8. Mental confusion: Liver cirrhosis can affect the brain function, leading to a condition called hepatic encephalopathy. This can cause confusion, memory problems, personality changes, and even coma in severe cases.
9. Loss of appetite and weight loss: As liver cirrhosis progresses, individuals may experience a loss of appetite, leading to unintentional weight loss.