How is alcoholic hepatitis treated?

How is alcoholic hepatitis treated?

When alcoholic hepatitis is diagnosed, it is important that the patient stop drinking alcohol immediately. Once this happens, the condition may begin to correct itself. The liver’s health may improve after 6 to 12 months without alcohol in the system. The best results are seen if the patient gives up alcohol completely.

Most patients who have been diagnosed with alcoholic hepatitis also suffer from malnutrition (the body is not getting the proper amount of protein, vitamins and minerals in the diet). The doctor and/or a dietitian will recommend a special diet and may also suggest that the patient take vitamin supplements while recovering from the disease.

In many cases, the patient does not have an appetite and finds it difficult to get the proper nutrition. The doctor may recommend nutrition through a feeding tube or medicine that will stimulate the patient’s appetite.

If the alcoholic hepatitis is severe and the patient is very sick in the hospital, medications may be prescribed to treat it. In some cases, a clinical trial medication or treatment may be considered.