Gastrointestinal conditions

Cirrhosis

When the liver develops scarring from long-term damage, affecting its ability to function.
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About

Cirrhosis is when the liver becomes scarred due to long-term damage. This can happen from heavy alcohol use, viral hepatitis, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Over time, the liver's healthy tissue is replaced by scar tissue, which affects its ability to work properly.

This condition is often invisible.

Many disabilities, including this one, may not have outward signs—people can be significantly impacted even if they appear “fine” on the outside.

Common Challenges

  • Fatigue: Employees may feel very tired, making it hard to stay productive or maintain a regular work schedule.
  • Mental confusion (encephalopathy): This can make it hard to concentrate, remember things, or make decisions.
  • Frequent medical visits: People with cirrhosis often need to go to the doctor or hospital for treatment, which can affect work attendance.
  • Absenteeism: Illness or complications like jaundice or infections may cause unexpected sick days.
  • Physical limitations: Swelling in the abdomen or legs, or general weakness, can make it hard to move or do physical tasks.
  • Mental health issues: People may feel anxious, depressed, or stressed because of their condition.
  • Medication side effects: Some medications can affect energy, focus, or physical performance.

Practitioner Help

  • Understand symptoms: Assess how cirrhosis affects the person’s energy, thinking, and physical abilities.
  • Provide emotional support: Offer help to manage anxiety, stress, or depression related to the condition.
  • Offer flexible work options: Discuss options like flexible hours, part-time work, or working from home to manage fatigue.
  • Encourage communication with doctors: Help maintain open communication with healthcare providers about treatments and side effects.
  • Help find suitable job roles: Find roles that fit their abilities, avoid physical tasks, and allow for breaks.
  • Assist with workplace adjustments: Help request accommodations like ergonomic seating or working from home.

Common Accommodations

  • Job changes
  • Flexible work hours or part-time schedules
  • Adjustable workstations to reduce strain
  • Access to mental health resources and counselling
  • Allowing more breaks to manage anxiety or fatigue
  • Remote work options (for better control of work environment)
  • Access to assistive devices (mobility aids, assistive technology)
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Notes

Williams Syndrome presents a mix of strengths and challenges. Leveraging verbal abilities while providing structured support for spatial tasks and sensory sensitivities helps individuals succeed in the workplace.

May is Williams Syndrome Awareness Month

Resources

  • Cirrhosis of the liver | healthdirect
  • Cirrhosis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Gastrointestinal conditions

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