Cirrhosis of the liver can be caused by other things besides alcohol abuse -- but, since
alcoholism is the first thing people commonly think of when they hear
that someone has cirrhosis of the liver -- your grandmother may be
embarrassed by this diagnosis.
If she does have a problematic drinking history -- she may be in denial about it and denying the diagnosis as well.
Whether she agrees with the cause of her liver problems is not nearly
as important as her receiving appropriate and timely treatment and her
making appropriate lifestyle changes (meaning for example no drinking
if she has been).
As a next step, I recommend that you confirm with her doctor that the
diagnosis is definite. If it is not -- ask what other diagnostic
procedures are available to confirm or rule out this diagnosis.
If the diagnosis is definite -- ask about available treatment options -- and prognosis.
Let me know if you need more input. If not, thanks for the
opportunity to assist you... Please honor my efforts by pushing green
'Accept' button (located within this post -- above-right). Adding
a bonus -- should you wish to do so -- would be warmly welcomed.
Good Luck!
Steve
Edited by Oreport on September 18 2005 at 6:43 PM
Counselor /listener/collaborative problem solver. Thanks!