What are the symptoms of early-stage liver cirrhosis?

Early Symptoms and Progression of Liver Cirrhosis

In the early stages of liver cirrhosis, patients typically exhibit no apparent clinical manifestations. As the disease progresses, non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms such as fatigue and loss of appetite may arise.

1. Fatigue

Due to impaired liver function, the ability to synthesize albumin decreases, leading to hypoalbuminemia and malnutrition-induced edema, which subsequently cause physical weakness and fatigue.

2. Loss of Appetite

Long-term chronic consumption leads to atrophy and thinning of the gastrointestinal mucosa. Additionally, portal hypertension causes dilation of the lower esophageal segment and cardiac orifice, allowing food to easily reflux into the stomach, stimulating the esophagus and causing nausea and vomiting.

3. Abdominal Distension

This primarily results from increased portal pressure, causing insufficient blood supply to the superior mesenteric artery, as well as splenic enlargement pressing on the stomach.

4. Jaundice

Jaundice occurs when a significant number of hepatocytes die or capillary bile ducts become blocked, raising the level of conjugated bilirubin in the blood. Clinically, this manifests as deepened urine color resembling strong tea or even soy sauce, accompanied by symptoms such as skin itching.

5. Bleeding Tendencies

Patients may experience epistaxis, gingival bleeding, subcutaneous ecchymoses, and purpura. In severe cases, intracranial bleeding may also occur.

6. Endocrine Dysfunction

Female patients may experience menstrual irregularities or amenorrhea, while male patients may display abnormal secondary sexual characteristics such as gynecomastia and testicular atrophy.

7. Others

Some patients may also exhibit symptoms such as spider nevi, palmar erythema, dark complexion, abdominal distension, and pitting edema in both lower limbs.

If you suspect you may have any of these conditions, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for a comprehensive examination and diagnosis to avoid delaying treatment. In daily life, maintain a light diet, avoid spicy and greasy foods, quit smoking and alcohol, and engage in regular exercise to enhance physical fitness.