Treatment of Cirrhosis
Treatment of cirrhosis focuses on stopping the cause, managing symptoms, and preventing or treating complications. Because cirrhosis causes irreversible liver scarring, therapies aim to halt progression and maintain liver function for as long as possible.
1. Treating Underlying Causes
- Alcohol-related cirrhosis: Complete alcohol abstinence is critical. Rehabilitation and support services help with long-term sobriety.
- Hepatitis B/C: Antiviral treatments can suppress or eliminate the virus and reduce inflammation.
- NAFLD: Weight loss, exercise, and diabetes management can significantly slow disease.
- Autoimmune hepatitis: Immunosuppressive medications reduce liver inflammation.
2. Lifestyle Changes | Treatment of Cirrhosis
Patients should avoid alcohol, eat a well-balanced, low-sodium diet, stay physically active, and maintain a healthy weight. Get vaccinated against hepatitis A, B, and influenza.
3. Managing Symptoms and Complications
- Ascites: Treated with diuretics and low-sodium diet. Large fluid accumulation may require paracentesis.
- Bleeding varices: Beta-blockers reduce risk. Emergency banding via endoscopy treats active bleeding.
- Hepatic encephalopathy: Managed with lactulose and rifaximin to reduce blood ammonia levels.
- Itching, fatigue, malnutrition: Treated with supportive medications, supplements, and dietitian support.
4. Medications
Cirrhosis limits the liver’s ability to process drugs. Review and adjust medications to avoid toxicity and protect the liver.
5. Regular Monitoring
Routine ultrasounds and blood tests are needed to monitor liver cancer risk and overall health. Early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma can allow curative treatment.
6. Liver Transplant | Treatment of Cirrhosis
In cases of liver failure or recurrent complications, transplant is the only curative option. Eligibility depends on MELD score and overall health status.
Overall, treatment of cirrhosis must be tailored to the individual, with regular specialist follow-up to adapt care as the disease progresses.
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