If the inflammation within the liver can be reduced, the rate of progression of liver damage can be slowed down or even halted. If cirrhosis is unchecked, the liver becomes increasingly replaced by fibrous tissue until it is unable to perform its many functions. Either of these symptoms must receive urgent medical treatment. The liver normally breaks down waste products which would otherwise affect the brain. With severe liver disease the liver cannot remove these waste products and they are carried by the blood to the brain.
Symptoms can range from minor lapses in memory to slurred speech, confusion and unconsciousness.
With treatment these effects can be completely reversed. This accumulation of fluid in the abdomen is called ascites. In a few people liver cancer may develop as a late result of cirrhosis. It is rare in people with chronic hepatitis C who do not have cirrhosis. For further information on liver cancer please ask for a copy of our Primary Liver Cancer leaflet.