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Digestive system Liver cirrhosis, CT scan Clubbing Digestive system organs
Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention
Cirrhosis
Alternative Names: Liver cirrhosis Treatment: Treatment is directed at managing the complications of cirrhosis and preventing further liver damage. Offending medications and alcohol are stopped. Bleeding varices are treated by upper endoscopy with banding or sclerosis. Ascites (excess abdominal fluid) is treated with diuretics, fluid and salt restriction, and removal of fluid (paracentesis). Coagulopathy may be treated with blood products or vitamin K. Encephalopathy is treated with the medication lactulose -- sometimes antibiotics are used and patients should avoid a diet high in protein. Infections are treated with antibiotics. If cirrhosis progresses and becomes life-threatening, a liver transplant should be considered. Support Groups: Text Continues Below The stress of illness can often be eased by joining a support group whose members share common experiences and problems. See liver disease - support group. Expectations (prognosis): Survival depends on the severity of complications of cirrhosis and the underlying causes. Complications: Bleeding esophageal varices Portal hypertension Hepatic encephalopathy Mental confusion Coma Abdominal fluid retention (ascites) and infection of the fluid (bacterial peritonitis) Sepsis Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) Kidney failure (hepatorenal syndrome) Calling your health care provider: Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>