1. Remove Dangerous Substances From the Mix
Perhaps the most important way to manage cirrhosis, a condition that results from liver disease, is to remove all substances that make the condition worse. Cirrhosis is irreversible, but you can slow down its progression with proper treatment. If you have cirrhosis, you should not drink alcohol at all, as your damaged liver can't process it as a healthy liver would. Stop taking medications that can interfere with liver function, even at lower, over-the-counter dosages. They include non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin products. There may be other medications that can cause further damage to your diseased liver, so make sure your doctor has a complete list of the medications and supplements you currently take.
2. Control Bleeding Disorders
Your doctor may try to control bleeding disorders that you may have as a result of cirrhosis by giving you supplemental doses of vitamin K. You can also take medication to cause your blood vessels to constrict. If you have a potentially serious condition called bleeding esophageal varices, you may need to undergo a procedure called an endoscopy. This procedure allows your doctor to apply medication to bleeding blood vessels in your esophagus or put bands around them to stop the bleeding.
3. See a Nutritionist
Schedule an appointment with a certified nutritionist to learn how to manage some of the effects of cirrhosis, such as weight loss edema. Your nutritionist can help you develop a diet that is low in sodium to allow excess fluid that has built up in your arms, legs and abdomen to drain. You will learn how to get the proper nutrition your body really needs after a large weight loss due to illness. Soybean extract has shown some signs of slowing liver damage in clinical trials, and may be recommended as part of your regimen.
4. Find a Support Group
Ask at your doctor's office or local hospital for information about a support group for sufferers of cirrhosis and their families. Meeting other people who are in your situation and understand what you are going through can help you manage the emotional ups and downs you are experiencing.
