Weight gain

[Ruby1960]

I have gaIned almost a stone in weight since Xmas. I haven’t changed my diet and have increased the exercise I do (3/4 miles/day). Has anyone else experienced this rapid weight gain with cirrhosis? How do you tell if it’s fluid or just good old fashioned fat!

[Ubwa]

Depends on your diet - people usually loose weight as their calorie requirements increase with less appetite. You will likely have metabolic issues and other endocrine system oddities at play too.

What is your current diet?

[Survivorx3]

Hi Ruby, I am so sorry you are going through this! When I first learned my liver was not functioning properly, in September I lost weight. In December I had a stent put in my small intestine because the tumor in my belly got bigger and was an obstruction. Since December I was put in a low residue diet, hate it, and I am retaining water, a lot of water. Doctor recently put me on a diuretic and it wasn't working so he doubled my dose and this past week I lost 5 pounds. Hoping I continue to lose this water because it is so uncomfortable and difficult to carry around. I am carrying it in my belly, thighs, calves, and feet. Legs elevated above my heart helps but once I start walking around the water goes straight down again. Does your diet include high protein? How much salt to you have each day?

[Porcupine_Tree]

If possible,ask your GP to refer you for an ultrasound.Normally the weight gain is rapid with ascites- 5kg in 16 days fir example. You will also have 'bulging flanks' and the abdomen will be like a drum i.e unable to pinch much fat.

An US will better determine the quantity of fluid. Anything less than 2 litres then they are unlikely to drain.

For obvious reasons increasing or starting on diuretics is the preferable option. Only your GP can make that decision.

Hope you have a speedy diagnosis.

[Ruby1960]

Thanks guys. I am due my 6 monthly scan in march so I guess I’ll ask the question then.

[billyde]

Hi Ruby. I just got my last US results and all was ok. I was so worried that ascites was back, but it turned out to be chocolate Hope you get good results too.