Treatment for Cirrhosis of Liver

Although liver damage from cirrhosis is irreversible, treatment can often help prevent further damage and reduce complications. The therapy used depends on the underlying cause of the cirrhosis. In addition to attending to the cause of cirrhosis, treatment focuses on prevention or improvement of any complications which may have developed:

Portal hypertension : Blood pressure lowering medications such as beta blockers are prescribed to lower portal vein pressure and prevent bleeding from enlarged blood vessels. 

Fluid retention : Avoiding alcohol and salt are the most important treatments to reduce fluid build-up. Diuretics (drugs which increase the formation of urine) are used if preventive measures fail.

Treatments for hepatic encephalopathy : Lactulose suspension helps in lowering the blood ammonia levels by changing the type of bacteria in the intestine and decreasing the absorption of ammonia . An antibiotic is also used to reduce the number of ammonia-producing bacteria in the intestine. 

Liver transplantation is the last resort. 

Precautions for Cirrhosis Patients

As the disease progresses slowly, the following measures should be adopted to reduce further liver damage:

Do not take alcohol : This is the single most important measure. Avoiding alcohol is crucial, no matter whatever may be the cause of cirrhosis. 

Use minimum medications : In general, avoid aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen and naproxen. The best pain reliever is paracetamol, and its dose should not exceed 2 gm. per day. Analgesics and alcohol should knot be consumed simultaneously. 

Restrict salt : Because the sodium in salt causes water retention, it can contribute to or increase fluid build-up. In addition to not adding salt to your food, it is best to avoid food containing high amounts of sodium. 

Avoid eating shellfish : Uncooked oysters, clams and other shellfish may contain the bacterium. Vibrio vulnificus, which can be extremely dangerous for people with cirrhosis. 

Take vaccination : As the capacity to fight off infections is compromised take all precautions to avoid becoming sick. Vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B, influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia is advisable. 

Cirrhosis of Liver
Causes of Cirrhosis of Liver
Diagnosis for Cirrhosis of Liver
Treatment for Cirrhosis of Liver