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Alcoholic Hepatitis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is liver inflammation caused by heavy alcohol use. AH can develop if you binge drink or if you drink regularly or heavily over time. If you are at risk for AH, you may be able to prevent it from developing.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

Seek care immediately if:

Call your doctor or hepatologist if:

Medicines:

Do not drink alcohol:

You must stop drinking alcohol as part of your treatment. You may be able to manage or reverse mild AH by not drinking alcohol. You may not be able to reverse severe AH, but not drinking may help prevent it from getting worse. Ask your healthcare provider how to stop drinking safely. Ask for more information if you need help quitting.

Do not smoke:

Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can make it hard to manage AH. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are in some way related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

Protect yourself against hepatitis C:

Hepatitis C is a serious liver infection caused by a virus. Hepatitis C causes liver damage and increases your risk for cirrhosis, especially if you continue to drink alcohol. Cirrhosis is a serious disease that causes scarring in your liver. Do not share needles if you inject drugs. Use a condom so you do not get hepatitis C during sex.

Ask about vaccines:

You may need vaccines to protect you against hepatitis A or B, pneumonia, or the flu. AH can increase your risk for infections.

Drink liquids as directed:

Your healthcare provider may recommend you drink more liquids to help your liver function or to reduce fluid retention. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.

Eat a variety of healthy foods:

Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, and low-fat dairy products. Your healthcare provider or dietitian can help you create meal plans to make sure you get enough calories and protein. It may be helpful to eat smaller meals throughout the day to prevent nausea and help your body absorb nutrition. Limit sodium (salt) to prevent or reduce fluid retention.

Healthy Foods

Take vitamins or minerals as directed:

Your healthcare provider may recommend vitamin B or other vitamins or minerals. Do not take any vitamins or minerals without talking with your healthcare provider. Too much iron can be dangerous to your liver.

Follow up with your doctor or hepatologist as directed:

You may need ongoing tests to check your liver function. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Learn more about Alcoholic Hepatitis

Treatment options

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.