Cirrhosis
Definition
Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver and poor liver function as a result of chronic liver disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms may develop gradually, or there may be no symptoms.
When symptoms do occur, they can include:
* Abdominal indigestion or pain
* Confusion or problems thinking
* Impotence, loss of interest in sex, and breast development (gynecomastia) in men
* Nausea and vomiting
* Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
* Pale or clay-colored stools
* Small, red spider-like blood vessels on the skin
* Swelling or fluid buildup of the legs (edema) and in the abdomen (ascites)
* Vomiting blood or blood in stools
* Weakness
* Weight loss
* Yellow color in the skin, mucus membranes, or eyes (jaundice)
