- drinking alcohol heavily during one's life
- hepatitis virus
- nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, a condition of the liver
Cirrhosis has various causes. In the United States, heavy alcohol consumption and chronic hepatitis C have been the most common causes of cirrhosis. Obesity is becoming a common cause of cirrhosis, either as the sole cause or in combination with alcohol, hepatitis C, or both. Many people with cirrhosis have more than one cause of liver damage.
Cirrhosis is not caused by trauma to the liver or other acute, or short-term, causes of damage. Usually, years of chronic injury are required to cause cirrhosis.
This answer is based on source information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Continue Learning about Liver Disease
Liver Disease
The liver assists in both digestion and cleaning toxins from your blood. When the liver is damaged, symptoms often include yellow color in skin and eyes, dark urine, persistent itching, and fatigue. The causes can be viral, as in ...
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.