Cirrhosis Support Group
Cirrhosis is a consequence of chronic liver disease, most commonly caused by alcoholism and hepatitis C. Ascites is the most common complication of cirrhosis and is associated with a poor quality of life, increased risk of infections, and a poor long term outcome. Liver damage from cirrhosis cannot be reversed, but treatment can stop or delay further progression and...
How important are the LFT numbers, including AST and ALT? If they start going down does that mean the progression of fatty liver or cirrhosis has slowed or been halted? My last numbers were really good compared to the previous 3 times. My ALT has gone down over 100 points from its highest level about five months ago, from 179 to 65. My doctor seems to think this means I don't have cirrhosis and there's no reason to do a biopsy or refer me to a specialist. Everything I've read says that AST and ALT levels don't necessarily correspond to the amount of damage already done, but can indicate that continuing damage has slowed or stopped for the time being. Does this sound right? I don't really trust my doctor very much. In the meantime he's started me on Cymbalta and I don't want to take anything that might cause further damage to my liver. On CT scan in June my liver showed fatty infiltration but the impression was that it was not enlarged or showing fibrotic changes, so I guess that's good.
I just want to know if I should insist on going to a specialist. Maybe that would give me more peace of mind?
Thanks everyone!
I just want to know if I should insist on going to a specialist. Maybe that would give me more peace of mind?
Thanks everyone!
deleted_user
I WAS TOLD BY TWO DOCTORS, THE ONLY WAY. TO SEE HOW YOUR LIVER IS , IS BY HAVING A BIOSPY. BLOOD TEST CAN GO UP AND DOWN. IF YOU CAN TRY ANOTHER DOCTOR. I DID, AND NOW KNOW WHERE I STAND. ITS A GOOD PICE OF MIND.
deleted_user
i think that you should always see the one who is the most knowledgeable. that would be a hepatologist. doesn't hurt anything if he tells you the same thing that pcp did. just eases your mind
deleted_user
Just my opinion but if your CT scan only showed fatty infiltration, you're not looking at Cirrhosis at this time. This rings true especially if your liver isn't enlarged. My liver, gallbladder and spleen are all HUGE due to cirrhosis. BUT..I think a Hepatologist would be a good idea. I've yet to see one because my PCP never referred me. I've got a new PCP and I'm going to insist. I think you should, as well.
deleted_user
They won't do a biopsy to me because of my liver condition but if they feel it would show more there is a invasive or fibro test that can tell you more of how damaged the liver is. They do this through from blood drawn and sent to a lab.
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theatre and I are there already. I'm having a very berry tea with crackers, cheese and cherry tomatoes and she's having a joint with some beer and we're both on really comfy recliners on thick pile carpet. we need some help with the decor if anyone is around??
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I'm trying to exercise daily. I was doing fairly well until I sprained my ankle 2 weeks ago but now I'm getting back on the horse. Today I walked over a mile with my arm weights that are about 22lbs total. I was out of shape and it was hard on my arms. I also did my 30 situps. I'm also going to drink a lot of water and try to eat healthy. I do tend to have a sweet tooth but I'm cutting...
