Many people who have cirrhosis do not have symptoms, especially early on.
Early symptoms of cirrhosis may include:
As cirrhosis gets worse, you may have other symptoms including:
Men may also have bigger breasts than usual (gynaecomastia) or their testicles may get smaller.
Cirrhosis is caused by long-term damage to your liver.
You may be more likely to have cirrhosis if you:
How serious cirrhosis is depends on things like what's causing it and how early it's diagnosed and treated.
Many people with cirrhosis can feel well and live for many years. But it can cause complications which can be serious or life-threatening.
Complications include:
You've been diagnosed with cirrhosis and:
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
You've been diagnosed with cirrhosis and:
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
Cirrhosis cannot be cured, but there are treatments that can help slow it down or stop it getting worse.
This usually involves treating the cause, for example, antiviral medicines if it's caused by hepatitis B or C.
You usually also have treatment to help prevent and treat complications of cirrhosis. This may include:
It's also strongly recommended to make healthy lifestyle changes, including to stop drinking alcohol.
You'll be supported by different healthcare professionals. This may include a liver specialist (hepatologist), digestive system specialist (gastroenterologist), nutrition specialists (nutritionist or dietician), and alcohol support services.
There are some things you can do that may help stop your cirrhosis getting worse and help you to stay healthy.
have a healthy, balanced diet
exercise regularly
try to keep to a healthy weight
check with a pharmacist or doctor before taking any medicines, including herbal medicines – they may not be suitable if you have cirrhosis
stay up to date with vaccinations, such as the flu vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine
do not drink alcohol
do not smoke
NHS Better Health has free tools and support to help you drink less, lose weight, get active and quit smoking.
If you have cirrhosis, you will be supported by a group of specialists.
There are also national charities that offer support and information about cirrhosis.
British Liver Trust provides information and support for anyone affected by liver disease.