Cirrhosis causes the abdomen to become large, hard, and distended.

Feb 27, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Chao

Introduction

A distended, firm, and bloated abdomen in liver cirrhosis may result from decreased digestive function, liver atrophy and nodule formation, or ascites. Medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid tablets, tiopronin enteric-coated tablets, and spironolactone tablets may be used under medical guidance. Surgical options include transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or liver transplantation. Additionally, dietary adjustments should be made to maintain balanced and nutritious intake.

Abdominal distension, hardness, and bloating in patients with liver cirrhosis may be caused by decreased digestive function, liver atrophy and nodule formation, or peritoneal effusion. Treatment options generally include medication, surgery, dietary adjustments, and other methods to improve symptoms.

I. Causes

1. Decreased Digestive Function

This may result from liver damage due to cirrhosis and reduced liver function, leading to impaired digestion—particularly weakened digestion and absorption of fatty foods.

2. Liver Atrophy and Nodule Formation

Liver atrophy and the development of nodules can cause the liver to enlarge and harden, exerting pressure on surrounding organs and blood vessels.

3. Peritoneal Effusion (Ascites)

This may occur due to portal hypertension obstructing lymphatic return and promoting fluid leakage, resulting in abdominal fluid accumulation.

In addition, liver failure could also contribute to these symptoms. Timely treatment is essential to prevent disease progression and protect overall health.

II. Treatment

1. Medication

Under medical supervision, hepatoprotective and jaundice-relieving medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid tablets, tiopronin enteric-coated tablets, and ademetionine butanedisulfonate for injection may be used to improve liver and digestive function and relieve discomfort. Diuretics such as furosemide tablets, spironolactone tablets, and hydrochlorothiazide tablets may also be prescribed as directed to reduce ascites.

2. Surgical Treatment

If portal venous pressure is significantly elevated, if there is bleeding from esophageal or gastric varices, or in cases of liver failure, procedures such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or liver transplantation may be considered under a physician’s guidance.

3. Dietary Adjustment

Adequate rest is important. Patients should consume easily digestible soft foods and avoid hard or coarse foods, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet.

In addition, regular follow-up evaluations of liver function should be conducted as directed by a physician to monitor disease recovery.

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Can short-acting interferon be used again after having been administered for 4 years and then discontinued for 4 years?

If the underlying disease (e.g., chronic hepatitis B or C) is currently in an active phase, with abnormal liver function or elevated viral load, and no severe baseline conditions (e.g., cirrhosis) have occurred during the 4-year period off treatment, the patient may be eligible for re-treatment—provided a physician evaluates them as having good overall tolerance and no contraindications to interferon use (such as severe cardiac or renal disease, or psychiatric history). An individualized dosing regimen would then be required.