How will I die from cirrhosis?

[mandysmaw]

In 1999 I was diagnosed with N.A., S.H., non-alcoholic steato  hepatitis,also called fatty liver disease. I was never one to drink more than two or three times a year. In 2003 I developed Esophageal varices with bleeding and was told I now had cirrhosis of the liver, and told I had 1 year left to live.

I've had several transfusions over the past 8 years, and my liver enzymes are doing pretty well so far.

I'd like to know how much time I have left, and what I can expect from this disease. I'm 58 years old and I believe in quality of life, not quantity.

I'd appreciate any info you have.

[kimyjeanne]

I too wonder how I am going to die from liver disease.  According to my prognosis I have maybe 3 yrs if I'm lucky.  Edema has been a problem for me but with diet restrictions this is manageable for now without meds.  Following an endoscopy they found evidence of varices At but early stage not considered necessary to band.  From what I've found out I think it will be a matter of various functions shutting down over an unknown time-span.  I have blood checks every 2 months and annual consultation.  The checks are good as it allows time to discuss issues I may have during that time and to discuss my overall health.  Some spider veins were noticed at my last consult so I just look out for any changes and check to see if they're on 'the list' with regard to cirrhosis.  I've tried to consider all my options with regard to 'the end' and ammend as different circumstances arise.  

[mikesimon]

People can live a long time with compensated cirrhosis. If you were told by a physician in 2003 that you had one year to live I guess it's pretty clear that your doctor was "dead" wrong.

If you did have bleeding varices then they should be monitored at least once annually with endoscopy. I assume your vessels were either banded or sclerosed in 2003 if they were in fact bleeding.

I have seen some articles suggesting that vitamin e can be helpful in patients with fatty liver but I would run anything by a hepatologist first. I'm sure you've been advised about diet with fatty liver and eating right can make a big difference in disease progression.

I have no idea how long you have and I doubt anyone does with any degree of specificity. But I do hope you live a long and happy life.

Good luck,
Mike