If a patient has liver cirrhosis, whether it is caused by hepatitis B, hepatitis C, drug-induced, or alcoholic liver cirrhosis, the first sign is that the complexion of the patient becomes dull and darkens with the progression of the disease, due to the liver's reduced capacity to inactivate hormones within the body.

In the early stages of liver cirrhosis, spider nevi may appear on the face. When these changes occur, it is advisable to visit a hospital for further routine blood tests, and to undergo ultrasonography of the liver, gallbladder, and spleen to check for early signs of cirrhosis. In early cirrhosis, there may be a reduction in white blood cells and platelets. Ultrasonography of the liver can show an enlarged spleen, hyperactive function, and check whether the portal vein is widened or if there are signs of portal hypertension, all of which are helpful for the early detection of liver cirrhosis.