Decompensated Cirrhosis with Odema and Lymphodaema......skin problems

[63745]

My partner was diagnosed with advanced decompensated Cirrhosis in summer 2020 and due to heart and lung failure was told by the Gastroenterologist no surgery could be offered due to his heart and lung problems as could not withstand a general anaesthetic. Sent home to me for Palliative Care. A 12 month prognosis was given in October 2020. Two years on we are taking each day at a time and there has been a significant decline in mobility and repeated hospitalisation for Respiratory Acidosis, so a Non invasive Ventilator was supplied to help improve his oxygen levels. The last two years have been a challenge with constant dry skin....which is splitting and venous ulcers proliferate. The skin is very dry despite use of creams on prescription and large grey/dry patches on the upper thighs crack and bleed and skin flakes off leaving patches of raw open flesh. As a Diabetic he gets repeated skin infections and has had Cellulitis which led to a further hospitalisation. Is the dry flaking skin anything to do with his decompensated Cirrhosis condition? The District Nurses call once a week to re dress the ulcers/ lesions, but the constant pressure of the bleeding weeping wounds is getting us both down. The District Nurses don’t offer a solution. What do you suggest we try next? It is of course painful to my Partner and I want to see his legs improve. By the way right from the diagnosis he stopped drinking without relapse and his Diabetes control is perfect. Anyone had similar skin issues? Would be interested to hear your experience. Thanks.

[Fibro2021]

I have dry and thin skin and dry eyes since the progression of symptoms of liver disease. I constantly use moisturizer and eye drops with artificial tears. No cracks yet, but it's probably a matter of time. I think your partner's dry skin could be linked to both liver disease and diabetes.

[63745 in reply to Fibro2021]

Thanks for that. Appreciate it.

[Readlots]

My Mums community nurse used Medihoney barrier cream on any area that looked like they were developing pressure sores. It’s expensive to buy but you might be able to get it on prescription. A little goes a long way.

When Dad was having chemo we used ‘Moo Cream’ which seemed to help.

[63745 in reply to Readlots]

Thank you very much.

[BritishLiverTrust6 Moderator British Liver Trust]

Dear 63745,

If you would find it useful to talk things over, our nurse-led helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 3pm on 0800 652 7330 (excluding bank holidays)

Best wishes

British Liver Trust

[63745]

Thank you. I will.