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stage 3 liver cirrhosis
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Digestive Health
Question #16167
4 days ago
15

stage 3 liver cirrhosis - #16167

Saanvi

I am really worried about my dad. He was diagnosed with stage 3 liver cirrhosis a few months ago, and honestly, it's been such a whirlwind since then. Last October, he started noticing some swelling in his abdomen, and we brushed it off, thinking it was just water weight. Then he had some weird fatigue but we thought he was just getting older. Fast forward to a few weeks ago, and they did a biopsy. When the doc told us it was stage 3 liver cirrhosis, it felt like a punch in the gut. They say lifestyle changes are key, but what does that even mean in practice? Like does he need to eat only certain foods or is alcohol completely off the table? He’s been doing ok in terms of symptoms, but the occasional itchiness and bruises freak us all out. How fast does stage 3 liver cirrhosis progress? I heard it can really vary, but are there any signs we should be on the lookout for? Just overwhelmed with all the info and trying to be optimistic but it’s tough. Any tips or advice would mean the world right now, especially from someone who's been through the same thing. Thanks!

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Doctors’ responses

Dealing with stage 3 liver cirrhosis can certainly be overwhelming, but focusing on manageable lifestyle adjustments can be quite beneficial. First and foremost, alcohol needs to be completely off the table. Even minimal alcohol consumption can exacerbate liver damage. He should also aim for a balanced diet that’s low in sodium to prevent fluid buildup, like the abdominal swelling he experienced. Foods high in protein can be helpful, but choose lean options like fish or chicken. He should also limit processed foods, and consider increasing intake of fruits and vegetables. Vitamins such as thiamine and folic acid might also be vital, since cirrhosis can cause deficiencies, so discussing supplements with his healthcare provider can be a good step. Monitoring symptoms like increasing fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), confusion or memory problems can be crucial; these could indicate complications such as hepatic encephalopathy or variceal bleeding—both require immediate medical attention. Regular follow-ups with the doctor are essential to track progression and adjust management plans appropriately. Cirrhosis progression varies a lot, but maintaining function and preventing further damage is key to prolonging quality of life. Keeping up with vaccinations, particularly for influenza and hepatitis, can prevent additional liver strain. It’s important for your dad to communicate openly with his healthcare team about any new symptoms he might notice. While it’s challenging, these steps might help maintain his current condition and slow disease progression.

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