Cirrhosis of the Liver

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Other names for Cirrhosis of the Liver

Chronic Liver Scarring
End-Stage Liver Disease
Hepatic Cirrhosis
Liver Cirrhosis

Synopsis of Cirrhosis of the Liver

Cirrhosis of the liver is a progressive condition in which healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue (fibrosis), impairing the liver's ability to function. It is the final stage of chronic liver damage from a variety of causes, including long-term alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). As the liver becomes increasingly scarred, it loses its ability to detoxify the blood, produce essential proteins, and support digestion and metabolism.

The damage from cirrhosis is typically irreversible, although early-stage intervention can slow or stop its progression. In advanced cases, cirrhosis can lead to life-threatening complications such as liver failure, internal bleeding, fluid accumulation (ascites), and hepatic encephalopathy (mental confusion from liver toxin buildup).

Types of Cirrhosis (by cause):

  • Alcoholic Cirrhosis: Caused by chronic alcohol abuse.

  • Viral Cirrhosis: Resulting from chronic hepatitis B or C infections.

  • Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH): Linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome.

  • Autoimmune Cirrhosis: From autoimmune liver conditions.

  • Cryptogenic Cirrhosis: Cause unknown.

Common Causes:

  • Chronic alcohol consumption

  • Chronic hepatitis B or C infection

  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or NASH

  • Genetic disorders (e.g., Wilson’s disease, hemochromatosis)

  • Autoimmune hepatitis

  • Prolonged exposure to liver-toxic drugs or chemicals

  • Bile duct diseases (e.g., primary biliary cholangitis)

Severity Factors:

  • The extent of fibrosis and liver function impairment

  • Presence of complications (ascites, variceal bleeding, encephalopathy)

  • Nutritional status and comorbid conditions

  • Whether underlying cause is ongoing or has been removed

When to See a Doctor:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

  • Persistent fatigue or weakness

  • Abdominal swelling (ascites)

  • Easy bruising or bleeding

  • Mental confusion or forgetfulness

  • Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss

  • Vomiting blood or black, tarry stools

  • After diagnosis of hepatitis, NAFLD, or alcohol dependency

Natural remedies for Cirrhosis of the Liver

Alcohol abstinence: Most critical for slowing or reversing early cirrhosis progression.

Liver-supportive diet: High in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins; low in saturated fats, sugars, and processed foods.

Limit salt intake: Helps reduce fluid retention and swelling.

Stay hydrated: Supports kidney and metabolic functions.

Avoid liver-stressing medications: Such as NSAIDs and unnecessary supplements.

Manage weight: Especially in NASH-related cirrhosis.

Gentle detox practices: Under supervision (e.g., herbal teas, antioxidant foods).

Vaccinations: Against hepatitis A and B to prevent further liver injury.

Additional Help

Talk with Dr. Shannyn

Struggling with chronic symptoms?
Many health concerns are complex—and what works for one person may not work for another. Talk with Dr. Shannyn, our licensed naturopathic doctor, to get personalized guidance on which herbs, nutrients, or lifestyle shifts could support your healing.

Schedule a Free Consult →
Personalized support. No pressure. No cost.

At-Home Lab Testing

Get to the root of what’s really going on.
Symptoms like fatigue, bloating, skin issues, or mood changes often point to deeper imbalances. Our at-home lab tests make it easy to investigate hormone health, gut function, food sensitivities, and more—no clinic visit required.

Explore Lab Testing →
Results interpreted with expert support. No clinic visit required.