Hepatitis is a medical term used to describe liver inflammation, a medical condition that can have a variety of causes. Liver inflammation treatment depends on specific questions as well as the underlying cause of the inflammation. Some of the most common methods of treatment include avoidance of alcohol, dietary changes, and the use of prescription medications. Medications such as aspirin and acetaminophen may cause symptoms to become worse and should be avoided except under direct supervision of a doctor. Herbal remedies such as milk thistle, licorice, or turmeric are thought to be beneficial liver inflammation treatment, although a medical professional should be consulted before beginning any new treatment program.
Prolonged or excessive alcohol consumption is a leading cause of hepatitis. For this reason, liver inflammation treatment often involves limiting or eliminating the use of alcohol. Aspirin is a natural blood thinner and may need to be discontinued if bleeding accompanies the inflammation. Some over-the-counter and prescription medications, including acetaminophen and drugs designed to treat blood clotting disorders, may not be able to be taken safely by those who have disorders affecting the liver.
Liver inflammation treatment may sometimes involve changes to the diet. A healthy diet containing raw fruits and vegetables may increase the body's natural ability to combat inflammation. Blood tests may be performed in order to determine the presence of any nutritional deficiencies so that vitamin or mineral supplementation can begin if necessary.
Antiviral medications may be prescribed as a form of liver inflammation treatment if the condition is determined to be caused by a virus. Headaches, dizziness, and digestive disturbances are possible side effects of these drugs and should be reported to a doctor if they become bothersome or severe. Interferons are prescription drugs that may be used to help boost the body's ability to recover from inflammation of the liver. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, and fatigue may occur when being treated with this type of medication.
Many patients may benefit from adding herbal remedies to an overall liver inflammation treatment plan. Licorice, turmeric, and milk thistle are among the herbs that are frequently used for this purpose. Side effects and medication interactions are possible when using these supplements, so a doctor should be consulted to make sure that there are no potential complications in an individual situation. Severe allergic reactions are possible with any medication, and symptoms such as chest pain, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing should prompt immediate medical attention.