Liver Cirrhosis And Its Impact On Body Functions

When liver cirrhosis progresses to a certain stage, regardless of the underlying cause, the number of functional liver cells decreases significantly. This decline leads to a deterioration in liver function, which can manifest through various symptoms and health issues.

Digestive System Symptoms: One of the early signs of declining liver function is related to the digestive system. Patients may experience loss of appetite, nausea, and an aversion to fatty foods. These symptoms can lead to unintended weight loss and further nutritional deficiencies.

General Symptoms Of Liver Deterioration: Jaundice is a well-known indicator of liver dysfunction, where the skin, eyes, and urine turn yellow due to the buildup of bilirubin. Other common symptoms include fatigue, muscle wasting, and general weakness. As the condition worsens, patients may feel discomfort or pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. Ascites — the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity — can also develop, causing visible abdominal swelling and bloating, often confirmed through ultrasound imaging. Additionally, edema in the lower extremities may occur.

Hormonal Imbalances And Visible Signs: With reduced detoxification capacity, the liver struggles to process hormones effectively. A key example is estrogen, which accumulates due to decreased metabolic clearance. This hormonal shift can result in distinct clinical signs such as palmar erythema (reddening of the palms), spider angiomas (small, spider-like blood vessels visible on the skin), and a characteristic appearance known as "liver face." Liver face typically presents as a dull, darkened complexion. Spider angiomas are particularly linked to increased estrogen levels and appear as small, red lesions with a central dot and radiating blood vessels, commonly found on the face, chest, and neck. Palmar erythema involves redness and dilation of blood vessels in the fleshy areas of the hands.