What are the symptoms and manifestations of cirrhosis?

Clinical manifestations of cirrhosis vary depending on the stage of the disease. In the early stages, only mild nonspecific symptoms may appear, such as persistent fatigue even after sufficient sleep; significant loss of appetite, feeling full after eating only small amounts of food, possibly accompanied by nausea and vomiting. As the disease progresses, jaundice may develop,表现为yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, and darkened urine resembling strong tea; spider angiomas may appear on the skin, which resemble spiders, with the surrounding branches disappearing when pressing the central red spot and reappearing upon release. Additionally, redness may appear on the thenar and hypothenar eminences of the palms, known as liver palms. In advanced stages, ascites may develop, causing abdominal distension and difficulty breathing, and may trigger gastrointestinal bleeding, presenting as hematemesis and melena, which are serious conditions.

If any of the above symptoms are noticed, it is essential to visit a hospital promptly. Liver function tests, abdominal ultrasound, CT scans, and other diagnostic procedures can be used to evaluate liver condition. Once diagnosed with cirrhosis, it is crucial to strictly follow the treatment plan prescribed by the physician and take medications regularly. Daily activities should emphasize adequate rest, avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy physical labor; the diet should consist of light, easily digestible foods, with increased intake of high-quality protein and fresh fruits and vegetables, while avoiding spicy, greasy, or coarse foods to prevent gastrointestinal tract damage.