What can be done to prevent the condition?

The most important way to prevent cirrhosis is to avoid excessive alcoholic drinking. Progression of cirrhosis caused by drinking can be avoided if the person stops drinking.

Maintaining good personal hygiene can prevent hepatitis. This includes washing hands after going to the bathroom. Following safer sex guidelines can help protect against sexually transmitted hepatitis. Vaccines against hepatitis A and B are available.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Once cirrhosis sets in, it cannot be reversed. Treatment may be able to stop or delay further damage. The severe long-term effects of cirrhosis are a result of the portal hypertension. These include:

If cirrhosis is diagnosed early in a person abusing alcohol, the chance for recovery is excellent. However, the person must stop drinking alcohol permanently and follow medical advice. Problems are significant if cirrhosis progresses before it is discovered and treated.

A person who suffers from cirrhosis due to complications from hepatitis may regain a normal life after a successful liver transplant. People who are suffering from chronic alcoholism may not be good candidates for a liver transplant because of the damage done to the rest of their body.

What are the risks to others?

Cirrhosis itself is not contagious. However, it may be caused by an infectious disease, such as hepatitis, which is contagious.