Cirrhosis
Alternative names:
liver cirrhosis
Treatment:
The general principles of treatment include abstinence from alcohol use, high protein in diet (except in cases of encephalopathy) with vitamin supplements, and adequate rest.
Ascites is managed by restricting sodium, taking diuretics, withdrawing fluid from the abdomen, and sometimes shunting blood from the peritoneum.
Bleeding esophageal varices can be treated by sclerosing the veins, by injecting them with a solution or banding.
Bleeding tendencies are treated with vitamin K preparations or blood transfusions.
Support groups:
The stress of illness can often be helped by joining support groups where members share common experiences and problems. See liver disease - support group.
Expectations (prognosis):
Survival is enhanced if the patient stops drinking before the disease becomes severe. The outcome is expected to be poor in advanced cirrhosis with severe liver dysfunction--50% survive for 2 years.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if symptoms develop that are suggestive of cirrhosis.
Call your health care provider, or go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if vomiting blood or if rapid changes in alertness or consciousness occur.
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