3. Cirrhosis (Severe Scarring)
Cirrhosis is advanced and permanent scarring of the liver. At this stage, the liver can no longer regenerate properly.
Although cirrhosis cannot be reversed, treatment may still slow or stop further damage.
4. Liver Failure
Liver failure occurs when the liver can no longer perform essential functions for the body.
This stage is sometimes called decompensated cirrhosis. Without treatment or a liver transplant, liver failure can be life-threatening.
How Common Is Liver Disease?
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About 1.8% of adults in the United States (around 4.5 million people) have liver disease.
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It causes roughly 57,000 deaths per year in the U.S.
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Globally, liver disease contributes to about 2 million deaths annually.
Men are affected about twice as often as women.
Early Symptoms of Liver Disease
Many people experience no symptoms in the early stages.
When symptoms do appear, they are often vague and may include:
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Upper abdominal pain
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Nausea
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Loss of appetite
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Fatigue
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General feelings of illness
