Alcoholic cirrhosis can still progress after quitting alcohol consumption due to irreversible liver damage, the progression of pre-existing fibrosis, and other complications. Treatment requires medication, nutritional support, and regular monitoring to slow the progression of the disease.
1. Irreversible liver damage: Long-term alcohol consumption leads to hepatocyte necrosis and fibrosis. Even with abstinence, existing scar tissue cannot fully recover. Liver function may partially improve after quitting alcohol, but the condition will continue to progress if the degree of fibrosis is high. Regular liver function tests and imaging assessments are recommended to monitor changes in the condition.
2. Pre-existing fibrosis before quitting alcohol: The liver may have already entered the middle to late stages of fibrosis before quitting alcohol. At this time, although quitting alcohol can slow down the progression, it cannot completely stop it. Treatment can combine anti-fibrotic drugs such as pirfenidone and colchicine, as well as hepatoprotective drugs such as silymarin and glycyrrhizic acid preparations to help slow down the fibrosis process.
3. Other complications: Alcoholic cirrhosis is often accompanied by complications such as portal hypertension, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy. These complications may persist or worsen, leading to disease progression. Treatment requires intervention targeting these complications, such as using diuretics to control ascites, lactulose to improve hepatic encephalopathy, and considering liver transplantation if necessary.
4. Nutritional support and lifestyle adjustments: After quitting alcohol, it is necessary to strengthen nutritional support by supplementing with high-quality protein, B vitamins, and antioxidants to promote liver cell repair. Avoid high-fat and high-sugar diets to reduce the burden on the liver. At the same time, maintain a regular schedule, engage in moderate exercise, and enhance immunity.
5. Psychological Support and Consolidation of Alcohol Abstinence: Withdrawal symptoms or psychological dependence may occur after quitting alcohol. Psychological counseling and medication are needed to consolidate the effects of abstinence. Seeking professional psychological counseling or joining an alcohol support group can help establish a healthy lifestyle.
While the progression of alcoholic cirrhosis after abstinence from alcohol cannot be completely stopped, comprehensive treatment, regular monitoring, and lifestyle modifications can effectively slow disease progression and improve quality of life. Patients need to adhere to long-term management, actively cooperate with their doctors, and pay close attention to their liver health.