Oedema is fluid built up in the tissues, usually the feets, legs or back. Both conditions result from abnormal accumulation of sodium associated with portal hypertension and liver disease. Most affected patients will not require strict fluid restriction. Sodium intake is often restricted for patients with cirrhosis to avoid retention of fluids in the body. Such a diet would allow only 2-4 grams of sodium and would exclude canned soups and vegetables, cold cut meats, condiments such as mayonnaise and tomato sauce, dairy products, cheese and ice cream.
Most fresh foods are low in sodium.
Steatorrhoea may go unnoticed by the patient or can be associated with weight loss due to lost calories. Stools may be foul smelling and float. They may be used as a caloric supplement. MCT oil is used like any other cooking oil, in salad dressings or in cooking. Patients with steatorrhoea may also have difficulty absorbing fat soluble vitamins.