Patient's question:
My father loved smoking and drinking beer in his later years, especially beer. He almost drank more than a liter of it every day. Sometimes, when guests came to the house, he would drink even more. Over a year ago, my father mentioned once that he felt bloated and slightly painful in his stomach, but he didn't take it seriously. Recently, the pain has become more noticeable. He went to the hospital for a thorough check-up and was told he has cirrhosis. What should be done about cirrhosis?Doctor's answer:
1. Treatment for the underlying cause should be provided according to the original disease that led to liver cirrhosis.2. General treatment includes bed rest, appropriate protein intake, sufficient calories, and various vitamins. Avoid the use of drugs toxic to the liver. Oral medications such as Gan-Tai-Le, Yi-Gan-Ling, Yun-Zhi-Gan-Tai, and Guo-Yi-Jie can be administered.
3. Treatment of complications
- Ascites treatment: Affecting water and sodium absorption, appropriate potassium supplementation is recommended. Diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide, spironolactone, or furosemide can be used. Blood transfusions, plasma, or sodium-free albumin may be necessary if needed. Minimize the amount of ascites drained. Diuretics should be avoided during hepatic encephalopathy.
In addition, during the treatment of liver cirrhosis, besides medication, the patient's dietary condition and psychological state are also crucial. The patient must avoid excessive mental stress and anxiety to prevent unnecessary negative impacts on the complete recovery of liver cirrhosis.