Leftover Liver Disease

Leftover liver disease continues to affect quality of life for some people despite being cured of hepatitis C.

For them, liver damage from decades of hepatitis C infection cannot be reversed. With the focus on getting everyone treated, some may feel their situation is being overlooked.

The Haemophilia Foundation Australia (HFA) has achieved micro-elimination of hepatitis C within their community, yet they have members still dealing with liver cirrhosis, the consequence of infection acquired from blood products they received in their youth. Hepatitis SA too has community members and volunteers in a similar situation.

Although liver cirrhosis is not curable, with the right support and management it is possible to live well and stay as healthy as possible. Accessible information is crucial not only for the person with liver cirrhosis but also for family members and support persons.

To this end, Hepatitis SA, with support from HFA, is putting together a collection of information resources for people living with liver cirrhosis.

One key resource in this pack is the booklet Liver Cirrhosis – Patient Information Booklet, based primarily on a publication of the same title written by Carlie Stephens, Hepatology Nurse at St George Hospital. Over the years, this booklet has been adapted and tailored for different liver units/clinics at different hospitals.

This latest Hepatitis SA version includes action plans developed by the Hepatology and Liver Transplant Unit at the Flinders Medical Centre. The action plans provide a quick reference for emergency situations, as well as tips for maintaining liver health.

Liver cirrhosis occurs when liver cells form scars and liver function is impaired as a result. Because the liver plays such a key role in overall health, the implications can be serious. In the later stages of liver cirrhosis— decompensated cirrhosis—you may experience confusion, jaundice, ascites and variceal bleeding. However, with support, regular clinical monitoring, good nutrition and planning, it is possible to stay as healthy as possible and maintain quality of life.

Action plans in the booklet include overall tips on staying as healthy as possible, what to do in emergency situations, signs of encephalopathy (mental confusion), understanding your nutritional needs and the best ways to meet those needs.

The booklet has been well received by community members during consultation. Liver Cirrhosis – Patient Information Booklet is available online at bit.ly/3MS0UKk. Print versions are available by calling Hepatitis SA on 1800 437 222 or emailing admin@ hepatitissa.asn.au.