Dad diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver through the er

[melngera830]

Hello I'm new to the group and was just looking for some help, my dad went to the er recently and had blood work done, and was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver. No other tests were done, and they didn't give him much info. He drinks, but not daily. Anywho he was told that his liver was functioning at 30%, is this something that can be determined through a blood test alone? He's trying to schedule an appointment with a doctor but everyone is closed here bc of Mardi Gras. If anyone can share their experience it'd be much appreciated

[jak547]

why was your dad in the ER?

[Hidden]

Cirrhosis of the liver can't be diagnosed solely on the basis of a blood test. Your father will need tests like an ultrasound & FibroScan or elastography to establish whether he has cirrhosis & if he does how bad it is. He should see a GP & explain that the hospital diagnosed him as having cirrhosis so he would like a referral to a specialist for assessment. Either that or the GP might send him off for an ultrasound & FibroScan or elastography to establish if he has cirrhosis & if he does what stage it's at.

[Hdon]

Not due on what basis they’ve diagnosed cirrhosis but, if he does have it and isn’t a heavy drinker, then he should get checked for Haemochromatosis or iron overload just in case.

[mncold]

Hi melngera830,

You didn't mention why your father went to the er or why the er doctors didn't set up some type of referral or suggestion to see another physician once he left. I know my husband has been to the er and depending on the reason the doctors either tell him to see his regular doctor or recommend seeing a specialist and either give him some suggestions within their own healthcare system or a list of available doctors.

If your father is feeling ok otherwise a few days wait may not be a problem. I would think however that if he is being told his liver function is at only 30% he would be recommended to see a hepatologist.

Best wishes to you both,

Mary