Is moderate liver cirrhosis serious, and how long can one live with it?

Moderate cirrhosis, also known as Child-Pugh class B cirrhosis, is a disease state that lies between mild and severe cirrhosis. It indicates that the liver has sustained significant damage but still retains some functional capacity. The severity of moderate cirrhosis depends on multiple factors, including the extent of liver function impairment, the presence of complications, and the patient's overall health status. Patients with moderate cirrhosis may experience symptoms and signs such as fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal distension, mild jaundice, spider angiomas, palmar erythema, and splenomegaly. Additionally, complications such as ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, or esophageal varices may be present. Life expectancy is influenced by various factors, including the patient's age, the underlying cause of cirrhosis, control of complications, and treatments received. Without treatment or if the disease continues to progress, moderate cirrhosis may advance to severe cirrhosis, at which point life expectancy is significantly reduced. However, with appropriate treatment and management—including abstinence from alcohol, pharmacological therapy, nutritional support, and regular monitoring—the quality of life for patients with moderate cirrhosis can be improved and survival prolonged. It is essential that patients work closely with their physicians, adhere to treatment plans, and undergo regular medical evaluations to monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness.