How to stop cirrhosis

Cirrhosis of the liver is a serious liver condition that can cause death if left untreated. Cirrhosis results when scar tissue forms in the liver, limiting liver function and efficiency. Alcohol abuse is a common cause of cirrhosis; according to MedicineNet.com, "chronic, high levels of alcohol consumption injure liver cells. Thirty percent of individuals who drink daily at least eight to sixteen ounces of hard liquor or the equivalent for fifteen or more years will develop cirrhosis." Other causes include hepatitis viruses, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and toxins. Acarring that is already present on the liver cannot be reversed, but you can take steps to stop further scarring and signficantly slow the progression of cirrhosis.

Things You'll Need

• Healthy low-fat, low-sodium diet
• Vitamin supplement
• Milk thistle
• SAMe
• Flu, Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B vaccinations

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Instructions

How to Stop Cirrhosis

• 1

  Detect cirrhosis in the early stages. The earlier liver problems are detected, the higher the likelihood of stopping or slowing down the progression of cirrhosis and the better the patient's long-term prognosis. If cirrhosis is not detected until the later stages, there is little you can do to improve their condition aside from awaiting a liver transplant.

• 2

  Treat underlying diseases. Many cases of cirrhosis of the liver are aggravated by underlying conditions such as Hepatitis A, B and C. Managing, treating and taking medications for these underlying conditions can help stop or slow cirrhosis.

• 3

  Stop alcohol use and stop all medications or drugs that worsen cirrhosis. Abstaining from alcohol alone can help the liver regain some function and can even reverse partial liver damage if scarring has not yet occured. Most illegal and some prescription and over-the-counter drugs can worsen cirrhosis, especially if taken while also consuming alcohol. Ask your doctor about liver interactions when starting any new prescription medication.

• 4

  Eat a healthy diet and take a vitamin supplement. Because the liver suffers damage during cirrhosis, the liver is often not able to process vitamins, minerals and other nutrients efficiently. Eating a low-sodium diet prevents water retention. Vitamins D, K and B are particularly helpful in slowing down the progression of cirrhosis.

  According to MayoClinic.com, "some alternative treatments have had some limited testing in people with liver disease. While none has shown any clear evidence that [they] can help people with liver disease, the treatments are relatively safe when discussed with your doctor and used as directed. Examples include milk thistle and SAMe."

• 5

  Get vaccinated against the flu, Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. Infections, especially hepatitis, can worsen cirrhosis. Avoid sick people and wash your hands frequently.