Signs and symptoms
... You may not have signs and symptoms of cirrhosis in the early stages of the disease. But as more scar tissue replaces healthy tissue and liver function declines, you may experience some of the followi...

Causes
... Weighing between 3 and 4 pounds, your liver is the largest internal organ in your body. It''s located on the right side of your abdomen, just beneath your lower ribs. A healthy liver performs hundreds...

Risk factors
... In the United States, excessive alcohol consumption is the single greatest risk factor for cirrhosis. The type of alcohol is less important than the amount consumed over a period of years. What''s mor...

When to seek medical advice
... If you''re experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of cirrhosis — weight loss, fatigue, jaundice and swelling in your legs or abdomen, especially if you drink alcohol or have had hepatitis &m...

Screening and diagnosis
... Because cirrhosis seldom causes signs and symptoms in the early stages, your doctor may discover the disease during a routine medical examination. By gently pressing your abdomen, your doctor can ofte...