Is My Father in law going to Die?

[goie]

My father in law is 54 years of age and was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver nearly 4 years ago. Since then, he has not been to the doctor AND he continued to drink up until 1 month ago, due to the fact that his body rejected the alcohol rather then him CHOOSING not to drink. He has many signs and symptoms of end stage. Is it likely he will live passed a year and what can we do to stabalize his condition with regard to nutrition, since he wont go to the doctor?

[hondapatches]

Does he believe in Christ Jesus. IF he is willing to be saved and accept Christ He can be healed. I did and now I am undectible. With God all things are possible.
Luv & God bless you

[Forseegood]

I remember when I was much younger, I used to judge people like goie's father-in-law as being weak willed, etc...now I know it's much more complicated than that, and judging someone when you haven't walked in their shoes is, at best, short-sighted.

But they are right, sometimes people have made peace with their decisions, in their own enigmatic fashion...and all we can do is make peace with the situation and show compassion for them and ourselves.

[meki]

Get him to go to the doctor - if you can.

If not - make your peace with his choices - and love yourself.

At times there is nothing a family can do - but sit and suffer... You need to know that alcoholism is a disease that many do not have control over. Please don't blame the man - but rather blame the disease.

There are many Al-anon groups - please consider going to one. They have one designed especially for family members - to help them understand what has been happening.

Unfortunately - medically - I can't answer your questions - but I wish you serenity and peace of mind.

Meki

[merryBe]

sorry to hear of your dad's situation. You can feed him a loose low iron, no red meat diet.
try to achieve 3 bowel movements a day, using OTC fiber drinks, or lactulose or miralax,

I think you should try to get him to see a doctor as many end stage symptoms, like swelling and itching, depression etc. can be helped with medications.

It will be difficult to say how long someone has given your description. Unfortunately when someone continues to drink for years after diagnosis their chances of getting a liver transplant go to almost zero. Sorry he didn't try to hang on for all of you. Unfortunately, some are just not strong enough to break the bond they have to alcohol. It's a baffling substance. Perhaps one day there will be a way to help those who currently can't help themselves. I certainly hope so.

maryB