Treatment of liver cirrhosis – Know effective medical approaches to control and improve liver function in patient patients.

Hepatic cirrhosis is a progressive disease that usually requires lon g-term treatment. Although cirrhosis has no cure, there are several treatment options to slow down the progression of the disease, control its symptoms and prevent complications. The choice of treatment depends on the underlying cause of cirrhosis and the disease stadium.

1. Changes in lifestyle: One of the main measures to control cirrhosis is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. This includes refraining from alcohol consumption, maintaining a low salt diet and exercising regularly. These modifications of lifestyle can help prevent greater damage in the liver and improve the general state of health.
2. Medications: several medications can be prescribed to control the symptoms and complications associated with cirrhosis. For example, diuretics can be prescribed to reduce the accumulation of fluid in the body, while beta blockers can help reduce blood pressure in the portal vein.
3. Transplant: In cases where cirrhosis has reached an advanced phase, liver transplant can be the only viable treatment option. During this procedure, the sick liver is replaced by a healthy liver from a living or deceased donor. Liver transplant can provide a new life opportunity for people with severe cirrhosis.

According to the American Liver Foundation, the main cause of cirrhosis in the United States is chronic hepatitis C. Therefore, it is crucial that people with this disease undergo antiviral treatment to eradicate the virus and avoid more liver damage. Besides,

Periodic control of liver function and liver cancer screening are essential in cirrhosis patients

to early detect any complication and provide rapid treatment.

Treatment Options for Cirrhosis of the Liver

1. Modifications of lifestyle: In the early stages of cirrhosis, certain changes in lifestyle can help improve liver health and slow down the progression of the disease. These may include:

• Avoid alcohol consumption, as it can further damage the liver.
• Follow a balanced diet low in sodium and rich in fiber, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Quit smoking, as it can harm the liver function
• Perform physical exercise regularly to maintain healthy weight and improve general wel l-being.

2. Medications: Medications can be prescribed to control the symptoms and complications associated with cirrhosis. These may include:

1. Diuretics: They are used to reduce excess fluid accumulated in the body, especially in cases of ascites (liquid in the abdomen).
2. Lactulose: It helps eliminate body toxins by increasing intestinal movement and reducing the risk of liver encephalopathy.
3. Vitamins and minerals: certain deficiencies commonly occur in cirrhosis and can be treated with adequate supplementation

It is important to keep in mind that medication should only be taken under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional.

3. MEDICAL PROCEDURES AND INTERVENTIONS: In advanced cases of cirrhosis, medical procedures or interventions may be necessary to control complications and improve liver function. These may include:

• Liver transplant: In cases where cirrhosis is serious and extensive liver damage, liver transplant can be the only viable option.
• Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic dertation (DPIT): This procedure helps to relieve portal hypertension and reduce the probability of complications such as hemorrhage by varicose veins.
• Paracentesis: It consists of extracting the excess fluid from the abdomen to relieve the symptoms of ascites.

It is essential that people with cirrhosis collaborate closely with their health team to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on their specific status, their medical history and general health. Regular control and monitoring appointments are essential to guarantee the effectiveness and safety of the chosen therapeutic approach.

Medications for Managing Symptoms of Cirrhosis

1. Diuretics: diuretics are commonly prescribed medications for the treatment of ascites, a disease characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen. The main function of diuretics is to promote the excretion of excess fluid and reduce body swelling. Spironolactone and furosemide are two diuretics that are usually prescribed and that act together to improve liquid excretion and maintain potassium balance.

2. Lactulose: Lactulose is a medication used to treat hepatic encephalopathy, a disease caused by liver dysfunction that leads to the buildup of toxins in the blood. Lactulose works by trapping ammonia in the colon, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. This helps lower ammonia levels and relieve symptoms such as confusion, insomnia, and personality changes. Regular use of lactulose can help effectively control hepatic encephalopathy.

It is important to note that medication management should always be supervised by a healthcare professional specialized in liver diseases. Each patient’s case will vary, and tailored treatment plans are essential to address individual needs and minimize potential drug interactions or side effects.

In addition to these medications, other therapeutic options, such as beta blockers for portal hypertension, may be prescribed to control specific symptoms associated with cirrhosis. Regular monitoring, compliance with prescribed medication, and lifestyle modifications are crucial in the comprehensive treatment of cirrhosis and its related symptoms.

Lifestyle changes to enhance liver health

1. Maintain a balanced diet: Following a balanced diet can play a crucial role in maintaining liver health. It is recommended to consume a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Additionally, reducing your intake of processed foods, saturated fats, and added sugars may be beneficial for liver function. Including foods beneficial for the liver such as garlic, green leafy vegetables and cruciferous vegetables can provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that promote liver detoxification.

TIP: Incorporate liver-friendly foods into your diet, such as olive oil, grapefruit, and walnuts.

2. Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption greatly contributes to liver damage and cirrhosis. To maintain liver health, it is important to limit alcohol consumption or avoid it altogether. For men, moderate alcohol consumption is defined as up to two drinks a day, while for women, one drink a day is considered moderate. It is important to note that people with liver diseases or a predisposition to liver problems should completely refrain from drinking alcohol.

Fact: excessive lon g-term alcohol consumption can cause alcoholic liver disease, which leads to cirrhosis.

3. 3. Exercise regularly: regular physical activity not only helps maintain a healthy weight, but also improves liver function. Practicing aerobic exercises, such as walking at a light pace or bicycle, can facilitate weight loss and reduce the risk of fatty liver, usual precursor to cirrhosis. The exercise also favors blood circulation in the liver, which increases its effectiveness when eliminating toxins from the organism.

1. Choose an exercise routine you like to make it easier to incorporate it into your daily life.
2. See your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
3. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your exercises.

Alcohol Abstinence for Preventing Further Liver Damage

Alcohol and liver damage: Chronic alcohol abuse is one of the main causes of liver cirrhosis. Alcohol is toxic to liver cells and prolonged and excessive consumption can cause inflammation, fatty liver disease and, finally, cirrhosis. The liver works tirelessly to metabolize alcohol, but when consumed in excess, it can overflow the liver capacity to process it, with the consequent liver damage.

“Alcohol abstinence is crucial for people diagnosed with liver cirrhosis to prevent major damage and preserve liver function.”

Benefits of alcohol abstinence: When refraining from alcohol, people with cirrhosis can significantly reduce the risk of progressive liver damage and help improve their health in general. Alcohol abstinence has several key benefits:

• Inflammation reduction: alcoho l-induced inflammation contributes significantly to liver damage to cirrhosis. By avoiding alcohol, the liver has the opportunity to heal and reduce inflammation, reducing the risk of subsequent complications.
• Prevention of fatty liver: alcohol abstinence helps prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver, a disease known as fatty liver. This is important, since the fatty liver can contribute to the progression of cirrhosis and its associated complications.
• Improved liver function: The liver has a remarkable capacity for regeneration. By abstaining from alcohol, the liver has a chance to repair itself and regain its function. This can lead to improved liver function, better metabolism of toxins, and greater overall well-being.

“Alcohol abstinence offers numerous benefits to people with cirrhosis, including reducing inflammation, preventing fatty liver, and improving liver function.”

Support and Resources: Alcohol withdrawal can pose significant challenges for people struggling with alcohol addiction. It is crucial to seek support from healthcare professionals, support groups, and specialized treatment programs to overcome addiction and maintain abstinence from alcohol. These resources can provide guidance, advice, and strategies for coping with cravings and successfully maintaining a sober lifestyle.

Hepatitis C Treatment in Patients with Cirrhosis

Treatment Options for Hepatitis C in Cirrhosis Patients

Cirrhosis poses an additional challenge in the treatment of hepatitis C, as it affects the liver’s ability to process medications and may increase the risk of adverse effects. Despite these complexities, significant progress has been made in the treatment of hepatitis C, even in patients with cirrhosis. The general goal of treatment is to achieve a sustained virological response (SVR), that is, the elimination of the hepatitis C virus from the body.

1. Antiviral therapy: The use of direct acting antivirals (DAAs) is the current standard treatment for hepatitis C, even in patients with cirrhosis. DAAs are highly effective in eradicating the virus and have demonstrated remarkable success rates, even in patients with advanced liver disease. They act by inhibiting the proteins necessary for viral replication, which allows the virus to be eliminated and liver function to improve.

2. Individualized approach to treatment: Tailoring hepatitis C treatment to the specific needs of each patient is crucial, especially in patients with cirrhosis. Factors such as the severity of liver damage, the presence of other medical conditions, and the tolerability of the medication must be carefully considered when designing a treatment plan. Healthcare professionals may recommend different DAA regimens and durations based on these individual factors.

3. Monitoring and follow-up: Regular monitoring of liver function and virological response is essential throughout treatment. Liver function tests, viral load measurements, and imaging studies may be performed to evaluate progress and adjust treatment accordingly. Close collaboration with healthcare professionals is vital to ensure optimal results and timely intervention, if necessary.

• Note: Treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, taking into account the patient’s individual circumstances and preferences.

Overall, the treatment landscape for hepatitis C in patients with cirrhosis has improved significantly with the advent of direct-acting antivirals. These medications offer a greater chance of viral eradication and improved liver function, even in individuals with advanced liver disease. However, close follow-up and individualized treatment are crucial to optimize results and control potential complications during the course of treatment.

The Role of Liver Transplantation in Advanced Cirrhosis

When it comes to advanced cirrhosis, liver transplantation plays a crucial role in improving patient outcomes and prolonging survival. Cirrhosis, a disease characterized by scarring of the liver, can progress to a point where liver function is severely affected. In these cases, the transplant offers those affected the opportunity for a new chance at life.

A key aspect of liver transplantation is identifying suitable candidates for this potentially life-saving procedure. Patients with advanced cirrhosis who have suffered complications such as variceal bleeding, liver failure, or hepatocellular carcinoma may be considered for a transplant. Additionally, it is essential to evaluate the patient’s overall health and fitness to determine if they are suitable candidates for intervention.

Important note: Liver transplant should be considered as soon as possible in the treatment of advanced cirrhosis to maximize the chances of success. The delay in the transplant can lead to a greater deterioration of liver function and an increase in complications.

Alternative Therapies and Complementary Approaches in the Treatment of Cirrhosis

1. Plant based supplements: plants based remedies have been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems to support liver health and improve their function. Some herbal supplements commonly used for cirrhosis include the Marian thistle, the lion tooth root and the licorice root. It is believed that these herbs have hepatoprotective properties and can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver. It is important to keep in mind that herbal supplements can interact with medications and can have side effects, so it is essential to consult with a health professional before starting any herbal regime.

• Cardo Mariano: Mariano Cardo, also known as Silybum Marianum, is a widely studied herb that contains a compound called Silimarina. Silimarin has proven to have antioxidant and ant i-inflammatory effects that can help protect the liver cells.
• León tooth root: León tooth root (Taraxacum officinale) has traditionally been used to favor liver function and promote detoxification. It is believed that it has diuretic properties that help eliminate toxins from the body.
• Recaliz root: The licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is known for its ant i-inflammatory and antiviral properties. It can help reduce liver inflammation and favor your health.

It is important to keep in mind that herbal supplements can interact with medications and can have side effects, so it is essential to consult with a health professional before starting any herbal regime.

2. Acupuncture: Acupuncture, an old Chinese therapy, consists of the insertion of fine needles into specific body points to favor healing and balance. In the context of cirrhosis, acupuncture is believed to stimulate blood flow, improve immune function and favor liver regeneration. Some people with cirrhosis can find acupuncture useful to control symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain and emotional anguish.

3. Nutritional therapy: adequate nutrition plays a crucial role in the management of cirrhosis and support for liver function. A balanced diet is recommended in sodium, refined sugars and saturated fats, and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. In addition, certain modifications of the diet, such as reducing alcohol consumption and avoiding food that can make liver damage, such as processed meats and fried foods, are beneficial for people with cirrhosis.

LikeDislike

Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont