Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a serious condition in which long-term liver damage causes scar tissue to replace healthy tissue. The damage can’t be reversed and there’s no cure, but the good news is that it can be managed and there are things you can do to prevent it in the first place.

What treatment is available?

Cirrhosis treatment aims to ease symptoms and stop the condition progressing. It can include:

• A low-salt diet or tablets called diuretics to reduce the amount of fluid in your body

• Medicine to reduce blood pressure in the main vein that transports blood from your gut to your liver, or to prevent or treat any infection

• Creams to reduce itching.

How can I care for myself with cirrhosis?

It is important you follow the individual advice given to you by a liver specialist (gastroenterologist). If you think you have cirrhosis but have never been seen in a hospital clinic ask your GP for a referral.

Other lifestyle changes that support your health with cirrhosis include:

• Zero alcohol intake

• Regular exercise

• Good hygiene to reduce your risk of getting infections

• A healthy diet rich in protein.