There are many myths regarding the stages of cirrhosis of the liver. Many people believe that cirrhosis only occurs in heavy drinkers, while others think they are safe from the disease simply because they avoid alcohol. The reality, however, is that liver cirrhosis can afflict any person for a number of reasons. Knowing the stages of liver cirrhosis can help you understand the disease and take preventative measures to protect yourself from it.

Cirrhosis is a disease in which the liver loses the ability to function due to fibrous scar tissue and nodules replacing the healthy tissue within the organ. It is a chronic illness that can afflict anyone. Heavy drinkers are at a higher risk of developing liver cirrhosis, but anyone with hepatitis B or C, fatty liver disease or cystic fibrosis is also at risk.

In the early stages of liver cirrhosis, severe symptoms are not always present. A patient sometimes complains of itching, fatigue, jaundice and changes in the shape of their fingernails. During these early stages, many doctors are simply forced to treat the symptoms as they arise. If the disease is caught during these early stages, there is a more positive prognosis. If the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may occur. The size of the liver may increase, the spleen may enlarge and the body can sometimes form ascites. This happens when fluid accumulates in body cavities (such as the stomach) and causes a bloated appearance.

The late stages of liver cirrhosis have a much more negative prognosis than the early stages. In these stages, the liver is most likely beyond repair and is not curable through medication alone. Often, patients who are in the late stages of liver cirrhosis suffer from complications such as hepatic encephalopathy, in which the liver cannot filter ammonia out of the bloodstream. An excess of ammonia in the bloodstream can affect a person's cerebral functioning and cause him or her to suffer from forgetfulness, unresponsiveness and changes in sleeping habits. The final stage of cirrhosis, sometimes called end-stage cirrhosis, requires a liver transplant. If the transplant is not performed, there is usually not much more the doctors can do for the patient.

Cirrhosis of the liver is a severe disease; understanding the stages and realizing that anyone is at risk, not just heavy drinkers, can help you watch out for the symptoms in yourself or those close to you. While the prognosis is not always positive, it is much easier to spot the symptoms of this disease if you understand it, and know what to look for.