To salt or not to salt?—That is the question in cirrhosis

Abstract

Ascites is the most common complication of patients with cirrhosis, resulting from portal hypertension and vasodilatation. It is associated with an increased risk for the development of hyponatraemia and renal failure and has a high mortality rate of 20% per year. The development of ascites represents a baleful sign in the course of disease in cirrhosis. To prevent complications of cirrhosis and improve quality of life, an effective management of ascites is pivotal. Combined salt restriction and diuretic therapy is recommended as first-line therapy in numerous clinical practice guidelines. In contrast, there has been a debate on whether a strict salt-restricted diet for cirrhosis patients should be used at all since salt restriction may increase the risk for malnutrition which in turn may negatively impact on quality of life and survival. This review aims to summarize the current pros and cons regarding salt restriction in patients with cirrhosis and proposes the importance of achieving a sodium balance throughout different stages of cirrhosis.