Cirrhosis is generally felt to be irreversible. Liver transplantation should be considered at this time. Diuretics Drugs that promote urination and allow the body to get rid of excess fluid and some salts. Often used to control ascites and accumulation of fluid in the lower extremitieis or edema. Edema Accumulation of fluid in the soft tissues outside of blood vessels, particularly in the legs around the ankles.
Severe edema can extend from the ankles and into the abdomen.
Encephalopathy Hepatic encephalopathy is mental confusion caused by the buildup of toxic waste products in the body that the liver normally clears. The point of no return has been reached in cirrhosis, and decompensated or unstable cirrhosis has set in. At this time liver transplantation may be considered. Symptoms include muscle wasting, fatigue, ascites, encephalopathy or variceal bleeding. In this procedure, doctors find the gallstones using an ultrasound machine and position the patient so the high-energy shock waves focus on the stones.