An abdominal X-ray shows an enlarged liver. A liver biopsy confirms cirrhosis. Ascites is managed by restricting sodium, taking diuretics, withdrawing fluid from the abdomen, and sometimes shunting blood from the peritoneum. Bleeding esophageal varices can be treated by sclerosing the veins, by injecting them with a solution or banding. Bleeding tendencies are treated with vitamin K preparations or blood transfusions.
Survival is enhanced if the patient stops drinking before the disease becomes severe.
Call your health care provider if symptoms develop that are suggestive of cirrhosis. Prevention Control alcohol use and other causative factors. The stress of illness can often be helped by joining support groups where members share common experiences and problems. See liver disease - support group . The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition.