The focus of treatment for early-stage alcoholic cirrhosis is on abstinence from alcohol and improvement of liver function. Common symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, and discomfort in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, requiring medical examination for diagnosis. Abstinence from alcohol is the primary measure, combined with medication and lifestyle modifications.
1. Fatigue is one of the typical symptoms of early-stage alcoholic cirrhosis. Due to impaired liver function, metabolic waste cannot be effectively eliminated, leading to insufficient energy supply to the body. Patients are advised to ensure sufficient sleep, avoid overexertion, and, if necessary, take liver-protective medications such as glutathione, silymarin, or compound glycyrrhizin under the guidance of a doctor.
2. Loss of appetite is related to reduced bile secretion from the liver. Bile is an important substance for digesting fats, and insufficient secretion can affect digestive function. Patients should avoid high-fat foods and choose easily digestible foods such as porridge, steamed fish, and vegetables. Supplementing with B vitamins and zinc can also help improve appetite.
3. Discomfort in the upper right abdomen is usually caused by an enlarged or inflamed liver. Patients may experience dull or bloating pain. It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise, maintain emotional stability, and relieve discomfort by applying heat. If necessary, anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken, but only under the guidance of a doctor.
4. Jaundice is another common symptom of alcoholic cirrhosis, manifesting as yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. This is due to the liver's inability to properly metabolize bilirubin. Patients should avoid alcohol and high-fat foods, drink plenty of water to promote metabolism, and use choleretic drugs such as ursodeoxycholic acid if necessary.
5. Weight loss is related to loss of appetite and metabolic disorders. Patients need to pay attention to a balanced diet, increase protein intake, such as eggs, beans and lean meat, while avoiding high sugar and high salt diets, and regularly monitor weight changes.
Early symptoms of alcoholic cirrhosis are varied and require diagnosis through medical means such as liver function tests, ultrasound, or CT scans. Timely cessation of alcohol consumption and lifestyle adjustments are key to improving the condition. At the same time, regular check-ups and treatment as prescribed by a doctor can help slow the progression of the disease.