Liver damage progresses through several stages, each with increasing severity:
1. **Inflammation**: The liver becomes swollen and inflamed, often due to infections (like hepatitis) or excessive alcohol use. Symptoms may be mild or unnoticed.
2. **Fibrosis**: Continued inflammation leads to scar tissue formation (fibrosis), which starts to replace healthy liver tissue, limiting its function. Damage at this stage can still be reversible with treatment.
3. **Cirrhosis**: Extensive scarring occurs, severely impairing liver function. Symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, and swelling become more evident. Cirrhosis damage is usually permanent.
4. **Liver Failure**: The liver loses almost all functionality. This stage requires immediate medical intervention, often leading to liver transplantation.
5. **Liver Cancer**: Long-term liver damage increases the risk of liver cancer. Regular monitoring and early diagnosis are vital.
If you notice symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and possible intervention.
