Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis Treatment in Colorado

We Provide Premier Gastrointestinal Care

Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology provides Colorado patients with premier cirrhosis treatment. Since 1997, our highly-trained team has offered patients throughout the state some of the very best gastrointestinal care. If you’re suffering from a digestive tract disease or disorder, we can help. We boast an unwavering commitment to providing appropriate and cost-effective healthcare services and performing a wide range of procedures. Read on to learn more about cirrhosis.

What is Cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis is a medical condition that occurs when healthy liver tissue is slowly replaced with scar tissue, eventually preventing the liver from functioning properly. This late-stage scarring (fibrosis) of the liver can be caused by disease, chronic alcohol consumption, and more. As the scar tissue spreads, the flow of blood through the liver is blocked, limiting the liver’s ability to process nutrients, hormones, drugs, and naturally produced toxins, as well as the liver’s ability to produce certain proteins and substances.

What Causes Cirrhosis?

Though there is a wide range of possible causes when it comes to cirrhosis, the most common is chronic alcoholism. However, there are various diseases and conditions that can damage one’s liver and lead to cirrhosis. The causes of cirrhosis include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Cystic fibrosis
• Liver diseases
• Chronic alcohol abuse
• Chronic viral hepatitis
• Fat accumulation in the liver
• Iron buildup in the body
• Copper accumulation in the liver
• Poorly-formed bile ducts
• Inherited sugar metabolism disorders
• Genetic digestive disorders
• Destruction of the bile ducts
• Hardening and scarring of the bile ducts
• Infection, such as syphilis or brucellosis
• Medications, including methotrexate or isoniazid

The Signs & Symptoms of Cirrhosis

Signs of cirrhosis can vary somewhat but usually include fatigue. When this condition first starts to develop, there may be no noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses and the liver’s state worsens, it’s not uncommon to notice weakness, lack of appetite, weight loss, and nausea. Other cirrhosis symptoms may include bleeding easily, bruising easily, swelling in the legs, or swelling in the belly. Signs of cirrhosis can also include skin changes such as jaundice, intense itching, spider web-like blood vessels in the skin, redness in the palms of the hands, or whitening of the nails. Symptoms of cirrhosis of the liver can also include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Fever
• Enlarged spleen
• Bone disease
• Vomiting blood
• Fluid retention
• Severe muscle cramps
• Brownish urine

Treatment for Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis treatments are often based on the underlying condition causing cirrhosis and the patient themselves, as there is no one-size-fits-all treatments. Generally, liver damage caused by cirrhosis is not reversible, but if the condition is diagnosed early, further damage can be significantly limited. The treatment that will work best for you and your unique situation will also depend on how badly your liver is injured. Treatment is typically based on protecting any remaining healthy tissue. Treatment for cirrhosis may include any of the following:

• Quitting alcohol
• Taking medications
• Losing weight if obese
• Consuming enough protein
• Consuming enough fluids
• Ensuring a low-sodium diet

Contact Us Today About Cirrhosis Treatment

If you’re experiencing any signs or symptoms of cirrhosis, reach out to the team at Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology at your earliest convenience. When it comes to cirrhosis of the liver, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This condition is capable of severely diminishing the quality of one’s life. To learn more or to request an appointment, contact our highly-experienced team today.