Low Sodium Diet, Medication, Liver Transplant, Lifestyle Changes

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Alcohol Abuse Treatment
• NASH Treatment
• Hepatitis Treatments
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Treatments
• Treatments for Autoimmune Hepatitis and Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
• Treatments for Cirrhosis Complications
• Liver Transplant
• How to Stay Healthy with Cirrhosis
• More

Cirrhosis isn’t curable, but it’s treatable. Doctors have two main goals in treating this disease: Stop the damage to your liver, and prevent complications.

Alcohol abuse, hepatitis, and fatty liver disease are some of the main causes. Your doctor will personalize your treatment based on what caused your cirrhosis, and the amount of liver damage you have.

Your liver breaks down and removes toxins from your body. Alcohol is a toxin. When you drink too much, your liver has to work extra hard to process it.

To protect your liver, you must stop drinking. That can be hard to do, especially if you’ve become dependent on alcohol. Ask your doctor about things you can try that may help you stop drinking, such as:

• 12-step and other support programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
• One-on-one counseling with a therapist
• Support groups to help you manage the factors that make you drink
• Inpatient rehab programs
• Prescription medicines like naltrexone (Revia, Vivitrol) and acamprosate (Campral)

Get more information on treatments for alcohol use disorder.

NASH is nonalcoholic steatohepatitis which is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It can cause liver scarring and lead to cirrhosis. While there is no medication to reverse the fatty buildup, controlling the conditions that may contribute to it can help stop the liver damage. In some cases, the liver damage has been known to reverse itself

You doctor may suggest vitamin E or pioglitazone to help. Vitamin E  alone is often perscribed for people who have NASH and don’t have diabetes or cirrhosis.

Hepatitis B and C viruses cause liver damage that can lead to cirrhosis. Treatments for these diseases can help prevent liver damage. For hepatitis C, there are now antiviral treatments that lead to a cure in the vast majority of people.

Options include:

• Antiviral drugs. These attack the hepatitis virus. Which drug you get depends on the type of hepatitis you have. The most common side effects from these medicines are weakness, headache, nausea, and sleep problems.
• Interferon (interferon alpha 2b, pegylated interferon). This helps your immune system fight off the hepatitis virus. Side effects can include trouble breathing, dizziness, weight changes, and depression. Interferon is not used often to treat hepatitis C since it can be cured with antiviral medications.

Learn more about the different treatment options for hepatitis C.

This is a buildup of fat that damages the liver. You can get it if you’re overweight or obese. The way to combat this cause of liver damage is to lose weight with diet and exercise. With any liver disease, it is important to not drink alcohol and, in some cases, avoid taking vitamin E. Find out how you can reverse or control non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

In both of these diseases, your body’s natural defense system (immune system) attacks and damages your liver. Primary biliary cirrhosis destroys the bile duct — the tube that carries the digestive fluid (bile) from the liver to the gallbladder and intestine.

Doctors treat autoimmune hepatitis with steroid drugs and other medicines that stop the immune system from attacking the liver. Side effects may include weight gain, diabetes, weak bones, and high blood pressure.

The main treatment for primary biliary cirrhosis is to slow liver damage with the drug ursodiol (Actigall, Urso). Ursodiol can cause side effects like diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, and back pain. Know more about the treatment options for primary biliary cirrhosis.

Cirrhosis damage can prevent your liver from doing important jobs like removing toxins from your body and helping you digest foods. It can lead to problems like these:

• Portal hypertension. Scars in the liver block blood flow through the portal vein. This is the main blood vessel to the liver. This backup of blood increases pressure in the portal vein, as well as in the system of veins that connect to it. Increased blood pressure makes these vessels swell up. High blood pressure drugs called beta-blockers lower pressure in the portal vein and other blood vessels so they don’t swell to the point of breaking.
• Varices. These are swollen blood vessels caused by blocked blood flow. They’re usually found in the esophagus and stomach. They can stretch so much that they eventually break open and bleed. Your doctor can tie a special rubber band around the varices to stop the bleeding. This procedure is called band ligation. A surgery called TIPS is sometimes needed to “shunt” — meaning redirect — the blood flow.
• Fluid buildup. Increased pressure in the portal vein and reduced liver function can cause fluid to build up in your belly. This is called ascites. Your doctor can prescribe medicines called diuretics to help your body get rid of the extra fluid. You might also need antibiotics to prevent bacteria from growing in it and causing an infection. Your doctor can do a procedure to remove fluid from your belly or relieve pressure in your portal vein.
• Liver cancer. Cirrhosis increases your risk for liver cancer. You’ll get blood tests or an ultrasound every 6 to 12 months to look for cancer. If you do get liver cancer, the main treatments are surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
• Hepatic encephalopathy. A heavily scarred liver can’t remove toxins from your body. These toxins can build up in your blood and damage your brain, leading to memory loss and trouble thinking. To prevent this complication, your doctor will give you medicines to lower the amount of toxins in your blood.

Cirrhosis can damage your liver to the point where it no longer works. This is called liver failure. A transplant means your damaged liver is replaced with a healthy one from a donor. You can wait on an organ transplant list for a deceased donor, or get part of a liver from a living friend or family member.

It can help you live longer, but it’s major surgery that comes with risks like bleeding and infection. After surgery, you’ll need to take medicines to prevent your body from rejecting the new organ. Because these drugs suppress your immune system, they can increase your risk for infection. Get more information on what you should know about liver transplantation.

To keep your liver as healthy as possible, make a few changes to your lifestyle:

• Eat a liver-friendly diet. Cirrhosis can rob your body of nutrients and weaken your muscles. To combat these effects, eat lots of healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein from poultry or fish. Avoid oysters and other raw shellfish, because they contain bacteria that could cause an infection. Also, limit salt, which increases fluid buildup in your body.
• Get vaccinated. Cirrhosis and its treatments weaken your immune system and make it harder to fight off infections. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, the flu, and pneumonia.
• Be careful when you take medicine. Cirrhosis damage makes it harder for your liver to process and remove medicines. Ask your doctor before you take any over-the-counter drug, including herbal remedies. Be very cautious about medicines that can cause liver damage, like acetaminophen (Tylenol).

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Cirrhosis of the liver – Better Health Channel

Cirrhosis of the liver is a type of liver damage where healthy cells are replaced by scar tissue. The liver is unable to perform its vital functions of metabolism, production of proteins, including blood clotting factors, and filtering of drugs and toxins.

Many people think that only drinking excessive amounts of alcohol causes liver cirrhosis. But there are a number of other ways that the liver can be damaged and lead to cirrhosis.

Depending on the cause, cirrhosis can develop over months or years. There is no cure. Treatment aims to halt liver damage, manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of complications, such as diabetes, osteoporosis (brittle bones), liver cancer and liver failure.

Symptoms of liver cirrhosis

Symptoms depend on the severity of the cirrhosis, but may include:

• appetite loss
• nausea
• weight loss
• general tiredness
• spidery red veins on the skin (spider angiomas)
• easily bruised skin
• yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• reddened palms (palmar erythema)
• itchy skin
• hair loss
• dark coloured urine
• fluid retention in the abdomen and legs
• internal bleeding presenting as dark-coloured stools or vomiting blood
• hormone disruptions that could cause a range of problems, including testicular atrophy (shrinking) and impotence in males or amenorrhoea (no periods) in women
• disturbed sleep patterns
• cognitive problems such as memory loss, confusion or concentration difficulties.

Causes of liver cirrhosis

Two of the most well-known causes of liver cirrhosis are long-term excessive alcohol consumption and hepatitis C virus infection. However, there are a number of other conditions that can also lead to liver damage and cirrhosis. In fact, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (‘fatty liver’) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease in Australia. A small proportion of patients with fatty liver can also develop cirrhosis. Hepatitis B virus infection is an important cause of cirrhosis worldwide.

Alcoholic liver cirrhosis

Excessive and chronic alcohol consumption is the most common cause of liver cirrhosis. Cirrhosis from drinking alcohol can develop over many years.

It is important to remember that the amount of alcohol that will damage the liver can vary from person to person. If a healthy woman drinks the same amount of alcohol as a healthy man, she has a higher risk of cirrhosis. Children are particularly susceptible to damage from alcohol. Some people also have a genetic predisposition to alcohol-related liver injury.

People with a medical condition, especially those affecting the liver, may have a higher risk of damage from alcohol. If you already have hepatitis B or C, or cirrhosis of the liver (from any cause), you are at risk of making your condition worse if you drink alcohol.

Liver cirrhosis and hepatitis

Hepatitis is a general term meaning inflammation of the liver. Viral hepatitis is hepatitis caused by a virus like the hepatitis B or C virus. Chronic hepatitis C is a common cause of liver cirrhosis. Hepatitis B can also cause cirrhosis. With either of these conditions, you increase your risk of developing cirrhosis if you drink alcohol.

Liver cirrhosis and fatty liver

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where fat accumulates in the liver. It now affects about 20 per cent of Australians. It is becoming more common in children who are overweight or obese.

NAFLD is associated with conditions such as:

• obesity – 20 per cent of people with obesity have fatty liver disease
• high blood cholesterol and triglycerides
• type 2 diabetes.

NAFLD can lead to inflammation of the liver and the formation of scar tissue, a condition called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can then lead to cirrhosis of the liver. NASH usually occurs in people who are obese, have diabetes or have high blood cholesterol and triglycerides, so controlling these conditions is recommended.

People with NASH have a higher risk of liver damage if they have hepatitis C. The effect of alcohol is debated, but it is probably not recommended if there is significant liver scarring present.

Liver cirrhosis from inherited conditions

Some inherited conditions damage the liver and this leads to the scarring that can contribute to cirrhosis. These conditions include:

• haemochromatosis – the body accumulates iron, which can damage many organs, including the liver
• Wilson disease – the tissues of the body accumulate copper
• galactosaemia – the body is unable to process galactose (a sugar) so it accumulates in the blood and can result in liver damage
• cystic fibrosis – mainly affects the lungs, but can also cause scarring of the liver
• alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency – can cause lung damage but can also affect liver function and lead to cirrhosis and liver failure.

Other causes of liver cirrhosis

A number of other medical conditions that result in liver damage can cause cirrhosis, including:

• some autoimmune diseases – certain types of cells of the immune system attack and damage the liver. These uncommon conditions that can cause liver cirrhosis include autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis (inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts).
• exposure to poisons – can damage the liver because one of the liver’s main roles is to remove toxins from the blood. Prolonged exposure to environmental toxins such as arsenic can damage the liver and lead to cirrhosis.
• schistosomiasis – a tropical disease caused by a parasitic worm called Schistosoma. The worm is passed to humans from snails, and the disease is also known as bilharziasis. Chronic schistosomiasis causes damage to internal organs including the liver
• certain medications (such as amiodarone, which is used to manage heart arrhythmias) – in rare cases, may cause cirrhosis in susceptible people
• unknown conditions – can cause cirrhosis in about one third of cases (called ‘cryptogenic cirrhosis’. Some of these are due to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease).

Complications of liver cirrhosis

Without medical treatment, cirrhosis of the liver can lead to a range of potentially life-threatening complications including:

• bleeding from enlarged blood vessels (‘varices’) in the oesophagus or stomach
• build-up of fluid within the abdominal cavity (ascites)
• infection of the fluid found within the abdominal cavity (spontaneous bacterial peritonitis)
• liver failure – loss of liver cells and disruption of blood flow through the liver by scar tissue can impair liver function
• impaired functioning of the brain caused by toxins that the liver has failed to remove (hepatic encephalopathy).
• primary liver cancer – the most common type of cancer caused by cirrhosis is hepatocellular carcinoma
• osteoporosis (brittle bones)

Diagnosis of liver cirrhosis

Tests used to diagnose liver cirrhosis may include:

• medical history
• physical examination
• blood tests, including liver function tests
• urine tests
• imaging studies, including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• transient elastography (Fibroscan^TM), this test uses an ultrasound-based technique to detect liver cirrhosis. This test is less accurate in people with obesity issues unless specially designed XL probes are used.
• liver biopsy, obtaining liver tissue for laboratory examination.

Treatment of liver cirrhosis

Cirrhosis of the liver is incurable but, in some cases, treatment can help to reduce the likelihood that the condition will become worse.

Treatment options include:

• treating the underlying cause of liver damage – for example, treating the underlying hepatitis (B or C) virus infection, or the removal of blood to lower iron levels in haemochromatosis
• making dietary and lifestyle changes – a nutritious low-fat, high-protein diet and exercise can help people to avoid malnutrition
• avoiding alcohol – alcohol damages the liver and harms remaining healthy tissue
• taking certain medications – such as beta-blockers to reduce blood pressure and lower the risk of bleeding or diuretics to remove excess fluid
• avoiding certain medications that can make the symptoms worse – such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opiates or sedatives
• having regular medical check-ups – including scans to check for liver cancer
• having regular endoscopic procedures to check whether there are varicose veins within the oesophagus or stomach
• having a liver transplant – an option that may be considered in severe cases.

Where to get help

• Your GP (doctor)
• Gastroenterologist
• Dietitian

Treatment of liver cirrhosis: methods, symptoms, causes

Contents

• 1 How to cure liver cirrhosis: modern methods and effective remedies
  • 1.1 Treatment of liver cirrhosis
    • 1.1.1 Drug treatment
    • 1.1.2 Diet and daily routine
    • 1.1.3 Surgical treatment
  • 1.2 Liver cirrhosis: what is it?
  • 1.3 Causes of liver cirrhosis
  • 1.4 Symptoms of liver cirrhosis
  • 1.5 Methods for diagnosing liver cirrhosis
  • 1.6 Treatment of liver cirrhosis
    • 1.6.1 Principles of treatment
  • 1.7 Treatment of early cirrhosis of the liver
    • 1.7.1 Lifestyle modification
    • 1.7.2 Honey medical treatment
    • 1.7.3 Surgical treatment
  • 1.8 Treatment of advanced cirrhosis
  • 1.9 Essential drugs for cirrhosis
  • 1. 10 Prevention of cirrhosis
  • 1.11 Expert advice for patients with cirrhosis
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What are the treatments for liver cirrhosis?
      • 1.13.0.2 Which symptoms of cirrhosis of the liver should be looked for first?
      • 1.13.0.3 What causes cirrhosis of the liver?
      • 1.13.0.4 What is liver transplantation and when is it necessary for cirrhosis?
      • 1.13.0.5 What is involved in lifestyle changes for cirrhosis of the liver?
      • 1.13.0.6 What medicines are available to treat cirrhosis of the liver?

Liver cirrhosis is a chronic disease that requires complex treatment. The article presents the main methods for diagnosing and treating liver cirrhosis, as well as recommendations for maintaining liver health and preventing the disease.

Cirrhosis of the liver is a serious disease that leads to irreversible changes in liver tissue. Statistics show that every year the number of patients suffering from cirrhosis of the liver is growing. The disease can occur due to alcoholism, viral infections, uncontrolled medication and other factors.

In this article, we will look at the main treatments for cirrhosis of the liver, the most common causes of the development of the disease, as well as the symptoms that should be paid special attention to. The experts will share their tips on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cirrhosis of the liver to help patients properly assess their situation and take the necessary measures to combat the disease.

Treatment of liver cirrhosis

Drug treatment

Treatment of liver cirrhosis should be carried out under the supervision of a gastroenterologist. Most often, drugs are prescribed aimed at stimulating the regeneration of liver cells and inhibiting the process of liver destruction. Hepatoprotectors, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory drugs may also be used.

Diet and daily routine

One of the important aspects of the treatment of cirrhosis is proper nutrition. Patients are advised to follow a diet excluding fatty, fried, salty, spicy and spices from the diet. It is also necessary to reduce alcohol consumption, otherwise the treatment may not be effective. The daily routine also plays an important role in the treatment of cirrhosis – it is necessary to exercise and properly distribute the time for rest and work.

Surgical treatment

In some cases, surgical treatment of cirrhosis of the liver, such as liver transplantation, is prescribed. This allows you to get rid of the disease and return the liver to its functions. However, this treatment is a last resort and is used only in severe cases of cirrhosis of the liver.

Cirrhosis of the liver: what is it?

Cirrhosis of the liver is a serious disease in which healthy liver tissue is destroyed and replaced by scarring. This tissue replacement leads to the fact that the liver stops working properly, which can lead to various complications and even death.

Cirrhosis of the liver can occur for a variety of reasons, including alcohol abuse, viral infections, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Symptoms of cirrhosis can range from mild to severe and include fatigue, jaundice, an enlarged abdomen, and severe pain in the right side.

Liver cirrhosis can be diagnosed through physical and laboratory tests such as ultrasound and blood tests. Treatment for cirrhosis of the liver may include lifestyle changes (such as stopping alcohol), medications, and in some cases, a liver transplant.

Causes of cirrhosis of the liver

Cirrhosis of the liver is a serious disease that is chronic and leads to irreversible changes in the liver tissue. The development of cirrhosis of the liver usually occurs gradually, and a number of reasons can lead to its appearance.

Alcoholism is one of the main causes of liver cirrhosis. When drinking large doses of alcohol, the liver begins to work in an enhanced mode and cannot cope with the load, which leads to the destruction of liver tissue.

viral infections, such as hepatitis B and C, can also lead to cirrhosis of the liver. These infections cause inflammation of the liver, which, if not treated promptly, can lead to cirrhosis.

Cholelithiasis , in which gallstones form, can lead to congestion and eventually cirrhosis of the liver.

Other causes of liver cirrhosis include autoimmune diseases , metabolic disorders , drug abuse , heredity .

In addition to these reasons, there are a number of risk factors, such as obesity , inadequate nutrition , age , male sex and others, which increase the likelihood of developing liver cirrhosis.

Symptoms of liver cirrhosis

Cirrhosis of the liver is a chronic and irreversible disease in which healthy liver tissue is replaced by fibrous tissue. Symptoms of liver cirrhosis are often not noticeable in the initial stages of the disease, but over time they can worsen and lead to serious complications.

Main symptoms of liver cirrhosis:

• Fatigue. Patients with cirrhosis of the liver often complain of constant fatigue and weakness.
• Jaundice. Jaundice is manifested in the yellowness of the skin and mucous membranes, and is also associated with a violation of the function of the liver to cleanse the blood of bilirubin.
• Edema. Edema may occur in the legs, which is associated with fluid retention in the body with cirrhosis of the liver.
• Weight loss. Cirrhosis of the liver can cause loss of appetite and weight loss, which is associated with a violation of the digestive system.
• Decreased platelet count. Low platelets may be associated with risk of bleeding in cirrhosis.
• Abdominal pain. Cirrhosis of the liver may cause pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.

If you notice these symptoms in yourself, be sure to consult a doctor and get diagnosed so that you can start treatment for cirrhosis in a timely manner.

Methods for diagnosing liver cirrhosis

Ultrasound is the most popular method for diagnosing liver cirrhosis. It uses ultrasonic waves to create an image of an organ.

Liver biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of liver tissue is removed and then examined in a laboratory. It allows you to accurately determine the presence or absence of cirrhosis.

1. KAG test – measures the increase in the blood concentration of a substance that is produced when liver cells are damaged.
2. Bile and duodenal pancreatography are X-ray examinations that allow you to study the internal structure and function of the biliary tract.

Computed tomography is a diagnostic method that creates images of sections of the body in different planes.

Diagnostic method Advantages Disadvantages

Treatment of liver cirrhosis

Principles of treatment

Treatment of liver cirrhosis is aimed at slowing or stopping the progression of the disease, preventing complications and maintaining liver function.

Basic principles of liver cirrhosis treatment:

• Avoidance of alcohol and other harmful substances. Alcohol and other harmful substances worsen the condition of the liver and can lead to rapid progression of the disease. Patients with cirrhosis of the liver are advised to stop drinking alcohol and nicotine.
• Dieting. An important part of the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver is the implementation of a diet aimed at reducing the load on the liver. Patients are advised to give up fatty, fried and spicy foods, limit the intake of salt, sugar and protein foods.
• The use of medications. There are a number of medications available to slow the progression of the disease and prevent complications. The use of these drugs should be carried out only under the supervision of a physician.
• Surgical treatment. In some cases, cirrhosis of the liver may require surgery. For example, if there are large liver defects, an organ transplant may be needed.

It is important to remember that the treatment of liver cirrhosis requires an integrated approach and should only be carried out under the supervision of medical specialists.

Early cirrhosis treatment

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes are important in the early stages of cirrhosis. First of all, it is necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle, give up bad habits and observe the correct daily routine. Reduce alcohol consumption and stop smoking.

For the treatment of liver cirrhosis in the early stages, attention must also be paid to nutrition. It is necessary to increase the consumption of vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and dietary fiber. It is also recommended to increase the intake of protein foods.

Drug treatment

Drugs are used to treat liver cirrhosis in the early stages. They help reduce the load on the liver and improve its functioning.

Preparations containing antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin E and C, and herbal preparations are often used.

Preparations containing strong antioxidants may be used to improve liver function. They help relieve the symptoms of cirrhosis of the liver and delay the further development of the disease.

Surgery

In the early stages of liver cirrhosis, surgery can be an effective option. Various methods of surgical intervention are used, such as liver transplantation, various types of liver resection, and others.

It is important to understand that surgical treatment can only be effective in the early stages of liver cirrhosis. If the disease is in an advanced stage, surgery may not bring the desired result.

Treatment of advanced liver cirrhosis

Advanced liver cirrhosis is characterized by serious organ damage and the possibility of complications such as internal bleeding, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy and others. Treatment at this stage of liver cirrhosis has its own characteristics and often includes various methods.

Other treatments include symptomatic treatment, management of complications, and supportive care. Doctors may prescribe medications to help control symptoms of cirrhosis, such as nausea or pain. Treatment of complications may include surgery if complications such as bleeding or ascites can be corrected surgically.

Supportive care, such as dietary changes, can help keep the liver healthy and improve the patient’s quality of life. Your doctor may recommend limiting your alcohol intake, watching your weight, and eating healthy foods. Patients with cirrhosis of the liver are also advised to check their body frequently with doctors and follow all recommendations to prevent serious complications.

Basic drugs for the treatment of liver cirrhosis

Immunomodulators: These drugs help protect organs from damage and reduce inflammation. Such immunomodulators include preparations containing interferon, such as Inferon α-2a, Inferon α-2β and Peginterferon.

Angiotensin II receptor blockers: Angiotensin II receptor blockers prevent narrowing of blood vessels by reducing pressure in the portal vein. These drugs are Losartan and Valsartan.

Ammonia lowering drugs: These drugs help to reduce the level of ammonia in the blood, thus reducing the toxicity of the body. These drugs include Lactulose and Rifaximin.

Liver-improving drugs: These drugs are designed to accelerate the regeneration of liver cells and increase their functionality. These drugs include Ursodeoxycholic acid, Silamarin and Essentiale® forte.

Glucocorticosteroids: Glucocorticosteroids are prescribed to reduce inflammation and painful symptoms of liver cirrhosis. These drugs are Prednisolone and Dexamethasone.

Diuretics: The drugs in this group help reduce swelling and fluid retention in the body. Diuretics can reduce portal venous pressure, improve circulation and respiratory function, and reduce the risk of complications. These drugs include Furosemide and Spironolactone.

Antibiotics: Antibiotics are used to treat infections that can occur with long-term cirrhosis of the liver. These drugs include ceftriaxone and metronidazole.

Antivirals: These drugs are used to treat viral infections such as hepatitis C and B. These drugs include Sofosbuvir, Daclatasvir and Ribavirin.

Depending on the stage of cirrhosis, treatment may include the use of one or more drugs. For effective treatment, you need to contact experienced professionals who will help you choose the most appropriate course of therapy.

Prevention of liver cirrhosis

Cirrhosis of the liver is a serious condition that can lead to an increased risk of liver cancer and death. In order to reduce the risk of developing this disease, it is necessary to adhere to a number of preventive measures:

• Refusal of alcohol. Alcoholic liver disease is one of the most common causes of liver cirrhosis. To prevent the development of the disease, it is necessary to stop drinking alcohol.
• Proper nutrition. Proper nutrition, rich in vitamins and minerals, will help strengthen the immune system and protect the liver. It is recommended to limit the intake of fatty and sugary foods, as well as increase the intake of fresh vegetables and fruits.
• Avoid contact with infectious diseases. Infectious diseases such as hepatitis B and C can lead to cirrhosis of the liver. To prevent this outcome, it is necessary to avoid contact with potential sources of infection and regularly check for viral diseases.
• Medication control. Some medicines can affect the liver and cause cirrhosis. Therefore, it is necessary to control the intake of medications, especially if the patient already has liver problems.

Following these preventive measures will help reduce the risk of liver cirrhosis and protect the liver from other negative effects.

Expert advice for cirrhosis patients

Proper nutrition: Experts advise patients with liver cirrhosis to watch their diet. They should eat more proteins and vegetables, as well as remove fatty, spicy and salty foods from their diet.

Refusal of alcohol: Alcohol is one of the main causes of liver cirrhosis. Patients should completely abstain from alcohol, even in small doses. Non-alcoholic drinks can be used as a substitute.

Watch for symptoms: Liver cirrhosis can present with various symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, jaundice and others. Patients should be closely monitored for symptoms and reported to their doctor.

Regular check-ups: Experts recommend that patients with liver cirrhosis have regular check-ups to detect possible complications and monitor the condition of the liver. Examinations may include blood tests, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, etc.

• Support for family and friends: Cirrhosis of the liver can greatly affect the patient’s psychological state. Therefore, it is important that patients receive the support of their relatives and friends.
• Follow your doctor’s advice: Experts remind you that cirrhosis of the liver is a serious disease and should be treated under medical supervision. Patients must strictly follow all doctor’s recommendations and visit the doctor on a regular basis.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the treatments for liver cirrhosis?

There are many treatments for cirrhosis of the liver, including drugs, surgery, liver transplantation, lifestyle changes, dietary changes, and more. The choice of method depends on the stage and cause of the disease, as well as other factors. A doctor’s consultation is required to determine the optimal approach to treatment.

Which symptoms of liver cirrhosis should I pay attention to in the first place?

The symptoms of liver cirrhosis can be varied and depend on the stage of the disease. In the early stages of the disease, there may be no obvious symptoms, but as cirrhosis develops, symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, weight loss, morning sickness, jaundice, dropsy, abdominal enlargement, and others may appear. A visit to the doctor and examination are necessary to establish a diagnosis and begin treatment.

What causes can lead to the development of liver cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis of the liver can be caused by a number of factors, including alcohol and drug addiction, viral infections (hepatitis B and C), autoimmune diseases, gallstone disease, metabolic disorders, and others. The risk of the disease can be increased by the presence of certain risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, heredity, etc. Therefore, it is important to lead a healthy lifestyle and monitor your health.

What is liver transplantation and when is it necessary for cirrhosis?

A liver transplant is an operation to replace a diseased liver from a very sick person with a healthy liver from a donor. This may be necessary for cirrhosis of the liver that does not respond to other treatments or if there are complications. Liver transplantation can be successful if the patient meets certain criteria and a suitable donor is found.

What is involved in lifestyle changes for cirrhosis of the liver?

Lifestyle changes can help manage some of the symptoms and complications of cirrhosis and slow the progression of the disease. It includes avoiding alcohol and tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, increasing physical activity, following a diet that limits fat and cholesterol, regular monitoring of blood components, and others. It is important to discuss with your doctor which changes may be most effective in each individual case.

What medicines are available to treat cirrhosis of the liver?

There are several classes of drugs that can be used in the treatment of liver cirrhosis, such as antibiotics, antivirals, immunosuppressive drugs, diuretics, and others. Each specific case requires an individual approach and the appointment of appropriate drugs based on the diagnosis, stage of the disease and other factors. For the correct prescription and use of medicines, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

• Drug treatment of liver cirrhosis in Israel, Assuta

Cirrhosis is a common disorder of the internal structure of the liver. Various diseases, drugs, and toxins repeatedly or continuously damage the liver. The damaged liver tries to repair itself by forming scar tissue. This process is called fibrosis. Cirrhosis of the liver is the last, most dangerous stage of fibrosis. The most formidable complication of cirrhosis can be liver cancer.

Causes of liver cirrhosis are:

• Alcohol abuse
• Chronic viral hepatitis B and hepatitis C
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

In this article

• Surveys
• Doctors
• Methods of treatment
• Symptoms of cirrhosis
• Reviews
• Cost
• Make an appointment
• FAQ

Examination for liver cirrhosis

HOW THE DIAGNOSIS IS GOING ON IN ASSUTA

• Laboratory tests. Complete blood count (CBC) allows you to detect anemia and other disorders in the hematopoietic system. In addition, blood tests can detect hepatitis and some other underlying causes of cirrhosis. Liver tests are also performed.
• Imaging studies of the liver. Imaging can diagnose moderate or severe (but not early) cirrhosis. Ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) help evaluate the size and structure of the liver. Ultrasonography may also reveal portal hypertension and ascites.
• Liver biopsy. A biopsy is the removal of a tissue sample for examination under a microscope. If the patient has already undergone a liver biopsy, a check (revision) of its results can be carried out in Assuta.

Day 1 – Initial inspection

11:00 am
Meeting the patient at the airport, meeting with the personal coordinator of the Assuta clinic, assistance in organizing accommodation for the period of the examination

14:00
Consultation with a diagnostician, initial examination of the patient and taking an anamnesis in Hebrew, issuing referrals for examinations

16:30
Hepatologist consultation, physical examination, determination of cirrhosis-specific abnormalities

18:00
Acceptance for revision of materials of examinations passed by the patient at the place of residence (if any)

Day 2 – Diagnosis

09:00
Detailed clinical and biochemical blood tests

12:30
Ultrasonography or computed tomography (CT)

16:00
Liver biopsy

Day 3 – Treatment Plan

10:30
Consultation of the leading hepatologist of the Assuta clinic, examination of the patient and study by the doctor of the results of examinations

14:30
Drawing up an individual treatment protocol, issuing prescriptions for medications

16:00
Translation of extracts and medical documentation into Russian

The price of the liver cirrhosis diagnostic program in Assuta is $2230 .

Find out the exact cost of treatment in Assuta

Who diagnoses and treats cirrhosis of the liver

Professor Ran Oren

Head of the Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Methods of treatment of liver cirrhosis in Israel

Medicines for the treatment of liver cirrhosis are usually prescribed in the later stages of the disease. Israeli doctors believe that the best approach to treating cirrhosis in the early stages is to correct or eliminate its root cause. Fighting the root cause of the disease usually prevents further damage and sometimes improves the patient’s condition.

Fighting the causes of cirrhosis

• If the patient has not been vaccinated against viral hepatitis, they are given appropriate vaccinations.
• To prevent the progression of cirrhosis, it is necessary to completely abandon the use of alcoholic beverages.
• If the patient needs to take drugs that are metabolized by the liver, the doctor will prescribe the minimum dose so that the liver is not affected.
• Chronic hepatitis is treated with medications, including antivirals and corticosteroids.

Treatment of complications of the disease

When fluid accumulates inside the abdominal cavity (in the advanced stages of cirrhosis), excess sodium is excluded from the diet, as it helps to retain moisture.

For hepatic encephalopathy, drugs are taken that remove toxins through the intestines (with feces). In addition, patients are prescribed antibiotics. Antibiotics in this case represent the optimal medical treatment for cirrhosis of the liver. They destroy excess bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract and thereby reduce the amount of toxins produced in the body.

For bleeding from gastrointestinal varices, take beta-blockers to lower blood pressure in the blood vessels of the liver.

Many patients are prescribed endoscopic ligation of esophageal varices. To apply elastic rings (ligation), the doctor uses a special tube – an endoscope, which is inserted through the mouth.

If beta-blockers or latex ring ligation do not work as expected, the patient is given one of the following procedures:

• Endoscopic cyanoacrylate injection. The doctor inserts the endoscope into the patient’s mouth and passes it into the digestive tract. Using an endoscope, the doctor injects cyanoacrylate into a bleeding vein. The substance clogs the blood vessel and the bleeding stops.
• Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). The doctor inserts a catheter into a vein in the neck and passes it into the veins of the liver. Using a catheter, a specialist creates a channel (shunt) that directly connects the portal vein with the hepatic vein. The procedure reduces the pressure in the portal vein, as the pressure in the hepatic veins is initially lower. Normalization of pressure, in turn, reduces the intensity of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract and prevents the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

How to get treatment in Israel?

You can ask any questions about treatment at the Assuta clinic using the application on the website or by phone. +7495-7899230 (your call will be forwarded free of charge to the international department of the clinic in Israel). Our consultant doctor will call you back within 1-2 hours. The consultation is completely free. Privacy is guaranteed.

Symptoms of cirrhosis

• Symptoms

Approximately 30% of patients are asymptomatic. Others complain of fatigue and general malaise, lose weight and notice a decrease in appetite.

Symptoms also include:

• Enlarged fingertips (“drumstick syndrome”)
• Jaundice
• Steatorrhea is a pathology characterized by pale, soft, profuse and greasy stools with a strong unpleasant odor
• Rash in the form of reddish-purple dots or spots
• Itching all over body
• Redness of the palms
• Reduction of the tendons, causing the fingers to curl (Dupuytren’s contracture)
• Small spidery blood vessels protruding under the skin (stellate angiomas)
• Nerve dysfunction outside the brain and spinal cord (peripheral nerves) – peripheral neuropathy

Find out the individual cost of procedures

Patient reviews

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How much does the treatment of liver cirrhosis cost

Liver biopsy

19 87

Liver Fibroscan (fibrosis assessment method)

684

Fibrotest blood test

180

Complete blood count

98

Blood test for liver function

35

Find out the cost of treatment in Israel

FAQ

There is currently no cure for cirrhosis. However, there are ways to manage the symptoms and any complications and slow their progression. Treating the problem that led to cirrhosis can stop the progression of cirrhosis.