Cirrhosis Support Group

My last abdominal CT reflected minimal ascites. I also have bilateral lower extremity edema, painful to touch. Currently managed w/ Rx Lasix 40 mg daily, in conjunction with Aldactone 50mg daily & low salt diet. I'm plagued by sporadic episodes of extremely painful mid-abdominal cramping, sometimes lasting for hours. So painful, I cannot change position until it resolves. I was wondering if anyone else has experienced this, and if so, what your hepatologists attribute it to. I'm also on Xifaxan (Lactulose d/c'd ~ 6mos ago). Personally, I'm blaming ascites buildup. Any input?

Thank you in advance,

tayla

Hi Tayla - I was the same spot you are....severe abdominal cramping - in fact I had to sleep on my tummy to null the pain - I also had 40 lbs of ascites - My Doc attributed it to the beginning stages of Cirrhosis....it will disipate....Hang in there - you'll get relief. Thinking of you, Ru

Hi, Tayla. No thoughts on the cramping but can I ask why the doctor discontinue the lacutlose? Is the Xifaxin alone working to keep away HE?

Thanks Ru - Sounds as though your experience w/ ascites was much more severe than mine. I have not had to be "tapped" via paracentesis and hope it can continue to be managed with diuretics & diet. Can I ask what strength diuretic you're curently on?

Hopes & Hugs,

tayla

Hi Jackie - thanks for your response. Hepatologist at both Mayo Clinic and then Tampa General in Florida wanted to try just Xifaxan since my bowel pattern was 2-3/day on minimal dose. Thus far, Xifaxan is effective alone. No increase in HE - mild, per usual.

Thanks again,

tayla