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pain in liver cirrhosis
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Digestive Health
Question #20400
47 days ago
108

pain in liver cirrhosis - #20400

Vivaan

I am dealing with some really concerning symptoms and I honestly don’t know what to think. A few months ago, I started noticing this persistent pain in my right side, just under my ribs. At first, I thought maybe it was just something I ate but after a few weeks, the pain in the liver area just wouldn’t go away. I finally went to the doc, and they ordered blood tests and an ultrasound which showed I might have cirrhosis. The whole idea of pain in liver cirrhosis has been freaking me out — can cirrhosis really cause this much pain? The doctors mentioned my liver is enlarged and slightly damaged, but they haven’t really told me how the pain in the liver and this condition relate. Sometimes the pain is sharp and other times it feels more like a dull ache. I also feel really tired all the time and my digestion has been off. Is there any connection to pain in liver cirrhosis, or should I be worried about something else? I just want to understand what’s going on, and if there's a way to cope with this pain in liver cirrhosis. I've heard mixed things, do I need to see a specialist or are my concerns too much? Any advice or insights would be super helpful!

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Doctors' responses

Indeed, cirrhosis can be quite perplexing and it’s understandable to be worried about the symptoms. Pain in the liver area can certainly be associated with cirrhosis due to inflammation, liver enlargement, or liver capsule stretching. The liver capsule, or Glisson’s capsule, stretches as the liver grows, causing discomfort or pain, which could explain the sharp or dull ache you’re experiencing. Fatigue and digestive issues can also be symptoms of liver dysfunction, as the liver plays crucial roles in metabolism, detoxification, and digestion. In cirrhosis, the liver’s ability to perform these functions is impaired, leading to the symptoms you’re observing.

While your current doctor is monitoring your condition, seeing a hepatologist, a specialist in liver diseases, could be beneficial as they offer a more focused understanding of cirrhosis and its complications. They might recommend additional tests like a liver biopsy or elastography for a more detailed assessment. As for managing the pain, avoid alcohol completely to prevent further liver damage and discuss with your doctor which pain medications are safe for you, as some can further strain the liver.

Dietary adjustments can also play a pivotal role. A diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, while low in sodium, can make a difference, as it helps manage symptoms and prevent fluid retention. Small, regular meals might mitigate digestive issues. Additionally, make sure to manage any underlying conditions, like diabetes or hypertension, which can compound liver disease.

If at any point you notice severe symptoms like jaundice, vomiting blood, mental confusion, or if the pain becomes unmanageable, seek immediate medical attention as these could indicate liver failure or other serious complications. Keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider to adjust your management plan as needed.

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