More often, the fluid causes abdominal discomfort and weight gain. Because blood flow through the liver is slowed in cirrhosis, blood returning from the intestine back to the heart must find alternative channels. These thin-walled veins can rupture under high pressure and cause internal hemorrhage. This can result in vomiting of blood, passing of black tarry stools, and even shock. Forgetfulness, loss of concentration, confusion, and poor sleeping habits may be a consequence.
Patients are also very sensitive to medications that are normally filtered by the liver.
This is especially true of sedatives and sleeping medications. Kidney failure frequently accompanies liver failure. Urine production is markedly diminished as cirrhosis worsens. The diagnosis of cirrhosis may be indicated by a physical examination and laboratory studies. The liver may be enlarged.