What is the difference between fatty liver and cirrhosis

The condition is characterized as the growth of fibrotic scarring on top of healthy tissue, which is replaced in the process. Cirrhosis is not a problem that develops right away; rather, it is generally an effect of years of damage to the liver, whether as a result of excessive alcohol consumption or from another health issue that may have gone undetected.

Much like hepatic steatosis, the first phases of cirrhosis of the liver do not often cause obvious symptoms. As the scarring continues to build, however, you may notice one or more of the following cirrhosis symptoms:. These are only a handful of the effects that could transpire as the disease intensifies over the years. Although both conditions can be chronic, having your symptoms treated and your health maintained is essential for your welfare.

Much like hepatic steatosis fatty liver disease , the first stages of cirrhosis of the liver do not often prompt indications to show up. Nonetheless, some signals of cirrhosis you might encounter as scarring continues to build up include:. These are only a few of the symptoms that could occur as the condition gets more severe over the long term.

While both problems could be long term, having your symptoms addressed and your wellness cared for is important for your quality of life. San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates is glad to employ a tremendously qualified group of experienced gastroenterologists who have a deep understanding of the GI system and the life-giving organs that comprise it.

We strive to understand your concerns to the fullest degree and utilize innovative diagnostic equipment to offer the most precise diagnoses. To schedule an exam, reach out to our team in San Antonio, TX. Back to"Blog". Request Your Appointment.

We'll never share your email with anyone else. Ernesto Guerra, Jr. Richard L. Hepatitis C, a blood-borne infection, can damage the liver and eventually lead to cirrhosis. Hepatitis C is a common cause of cirrhosis in Western Europe, North America, and many other parts of the world. Cirrhosis can also be caused by hepatitis B and D. NASH, in its early stages, begins with the accumulation of too much fat in the liver. The fat causes inflammation and scarring, resulting in possible cirrhosis later on.

NASH is more likely to occur in people who are obese, diabetes patients, those with high fat levels in the blood, and people with high blood pressure. Sometimes the liver is attacked. Eventually, the patient can develop cirrhosis. Some conditions and diseases, such as cancer of the bile ducts, or cancer of the pancreas, can block the bile ducts, increasing the risk of cirrhosis. This condition causes blood clots in the hepatic vein, the blood vessel that carries blood from the liver.

This leads to liver enlargement and the development of collateral vessels. Because there are rarely symptoms early on in the condition, cirrhosis is often diagnosed when the patient is being tested for some other condition or disease.

A doctor will examine the patient and feel around the liver area to determine whether it is enlarged. The patient will be asked about their medical history and lifestyle, including drinking.

Cirrhosis can lead to several other conditions, some of which are life-threatening. These include :. Ascites or edema: Ascites is a buildup of fluid in the abdomen, and edema is a buildup of fluid in the legs. They can be treated with a low-salt diet and water pills. In severe cases, the fluid may have to be drained repeatedly. Surgery is sometimes needed.

Varices and portal hypertension: These are large, swollen veins in the esophagus and stomach. They can increase pressure in a blood vessel called the portal vein that carries blood from the spleen and bowel to the liver. Varices can rupture, causing severe blood loss and clots.

Hepatic encephalopathy: This refers to high levels of toxins in the blood where the liver is no longer successfully filtering them all. Hepatocellular carcinoma: This is the most common type of liver cancer. It is the third-leading cause of cancer mortality across the globe. Hepatopulmonary syndrome HPS : Doctors define HPS as a combination of liver disease, dilated blood vessels in the lungs, and abnormalities in the exchange of gases.

It is linked to an increase in the mortality rate of people waiting for a liver transplant. Coagulation disorders: Cirrhosis can cause problems with blood clotting, leading to potentially fatal bleeds and clots. Staying within recommended daily and weekly alcohol limits is highly recommended to avoid cirrhosis.

Please refer to the following helpful information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC about drinking in moderation. Individuals who have cirrhosis should avoid alcohol completely. Alcohol accelerates the progression of the disease. As cirrhosis cannot be reversed or repaired once it reaches a certain stage, prevention is often considered the best form of treatment. Specialists are expressing concern over rising mortality due to late-stage liver disease.