Who is at risk, and how does Cirrhosis develop?Women are at greater risk of getting cirrhosis and people ages thirty to sixty are at a greater risk as well. Genetics plays a role as well because if anybody in a family line has it then it is more likely for someone to get it. Cirrhosis starts to develop after you get Hepatitis or after years of extensive drinking. Eventually scar tissue builds up and replaces the normal liver tissue, which blocks the flow of blood through the liver. When the flow of blood slows down the processing of harmful substances like alcohol and drugs or poisons get through your liver into your bloodstream.
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What long term problems occur when you get Cirrhosis? |
Scar tissue in the liver can build up after the damage is excessive, and it can never heal. The scarring can lead to fatigue, yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, heavy nosebleeds, red palms, confusion and itching.
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How many cases are reported each year? |
Per 100,000 people, there are 11.5 fatalities related to liver damage or cirrhosis. There have been 36,427 deaths total. In the UK only there are 30,000 people living with cirrhosis and 7,000 more diagnosed each year.
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