The abuse of the alcohol can take the alcoholic hepatic cirrhosis, problem of public health and high social cost. It was objectified to apprehend the representations on alcoholic hepatic cirrhosis elaborated by its carriers. Methodology: descriptive, exploratory study, with qualitative approach developed in two public institutions in the city of Fortaleza-CE (Brazil). Fifteen citizens with diagnosis of alcoholic hepatic cirrhosis had participated. It was applied a half structured interview, and used the technique of thematic analysis of content. Results: Five categories had emerged, however we will show three of them: Conceptions on cirrhosis, Perceptions on cirrhosis, and Consequences of the cirrhosis, which showed the cirrhosis represented as illness that destroys, and causes death. Living had been observed, permeated by difficulties, mainly, emotional social and economics. Conclusions: Consequently, the need arises for a change of attitude by the health professional to humanize the care, and thereby minimize the suffering of these patients.
Alcoholism; Liver Cirrhosis; Chronic Illness
