Warning signs of Cirrhosis

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The following is from California Pacific Medical Center:

Know the Warning Signs of Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is defined as a scarring process where liver cells are

replaced or destroyed and are unable to function. Cirrhosis can be

caused by many different factors. Alcohol is only one of many causes

of cirrhosis. The most common causes of cirrhosis in the world are the

viruses such as Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.

When the liver does not function properly, patients may experience one

or more warning signs. Abnormal liver function is a warning sign of

cirrhosis that is measured by a blood test. Examples include:

* " thin " blood (An increased or prolonged prothrombin time – also

called a P.T. – this test is now also defined as an " INR. " The INR

number increases as the liver fails.)

* high bilirubin – greater than 2.0 mg/dL is a concern

* low albumin – less than 3.5 mg/dL is a concern

* low cholesterol – less than 100 mg/dL is a concern

* low platelets – less than 100,000 is a concern (Platelets are

cells involved in blood clotting.)

When the liver does not function properly, patients may experience

other warning signs. Please notify your hepatologist or liver

specialist if any of these symptoms occur:

* Swollen feet

* Swollen abdomen (ascites)

* Confusion (encephalopathy)

* Progressive memory loss

* Difficulty sleeping during the night and increased sleeping

during the day

* Vomiting blood

* Passing blood, purple or black bowel movements

* Yellow eyes and/or skin

* Flapping of the extended hands (asterixis)

* Muscle loss

Note: Worsening signs of cirrhosis included bloody or tarry stools,

vomiting blood, and/or worsening signs of encephalopathy such as

severe confusion, drowsiness, disorientation, or coma. Please seek

immediate medical attention in your local Emergency Room if these

symptoms occur.