Treatments for Cirrhosis

Because cirrhosis cannot be cured, treatment focuses on preventing further liver damage, easing symptoms, and reducing the impact of complications. The liver is a large organ and is able to perform many of its vital functions despite some damage. It also has the ability to repair itself provided that the injury is not too severe. Removing the causes of cirrhosis increases your chances of recovering and carrying on a more normal life.

Treatment involves the following:

• Lifestyle changes

• Medications
• Surgery
• Alternative and complementary therapies

References:

American Liver Foundation website. Available at: http://www.liverfoundation.org/. Accessed March 8, 2006.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niddk.nih.gov/. Accessed March 7, 2006.

National Library of Medicine website. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/. Accessed March 8, 2006.

Last reviewed January 2007 by David L. Horn, MD, FACP

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.