www.healthpoint.co.nz

Dr Rachael Harry - Hepatologist

Contact Details

Phone (09) 550 1080
Fax (09) 550 1081
Email admin@macmurray.co.nz
Healthlink EDI: mcmurray

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is the term used to describe a diseased liver that has been badly scarred, usually due to many years of injury. Many people who have developed cirrhosis have no symptoms or have only fatigue, which is very common. However, as the cirrhosis progresses, symptoms often develop as the liver is no longer able to perform its normal functions.

Symptoms include:

swollen legs and an enlarged abdomen
easy bruising and bleeding
frequent bacterial infections
malnutrition, especially muscle wasting in the temples and upper arms
jaundice (a yellow tinge to the skin and eyes).

Cirrhosis is diagnosed using a number of tests including: blood tests, ultrasound scans and a biopsy of the liver.

Treatment options depend on the severity of damage to the liver and include dietary changes and avoidance of substances such as alcohol that can further damage the liver. Medication may be given to prevent complications and treat symptoms of liver failure. There is no cure other than liver transplantation.

https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/private/gastroenterology-hepatology-liver/dr-rachael-harry-hepatologist/