1.9K Reviews    |    4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    72k+ Patients Treated

Autoimmune Hepatitis

In Cypress, our team of gastroenterology providers at GastroDoxs focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune hepatitis, through further investigation, personalized care plans, advanced therapies, nutrition counseling, preventive measures, and follow-up treatment of its local clientele to maintain their liver health and well-being.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here
Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is Autoimmune Hepatitis?

Autoimmune hepatitis is the disease of the liver that is irreversible and is characterized by an explanation of the work of the immune system against innocent liver cells. This is an inflammatory response of the immune system that may result in pain, scarring, and even irreparable liver damage ordinarily.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms often develop slowly, though some people may experience a sudden flare-up. Common signs include:

  • Extreme fatigue or persistent tiredness
  • Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
  • Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea or feeling unwell after eating
  • Dark-colored urine or pale-colored stools
  • Joint pain or muscle aches

Causes

The exact trigger for autoimmune hepatitis is unknown, but several factors can contribute:

  • Genetic predisposition or family history of autoimmune diseases
  • Prior viral infections (for example, hepatitis viruses)
  • Long-term exposure to certain drugs or chemicals
  • Hormonal influences (it affects more women than men)
  • Other autoimmune conditions such as thyroid disease or lupus
Treatment

Treatment Options for Autoimmune Hepatitis in Cypress

Treatment includes medication, monitoring, and lifestyle support:

  • Steroids (prednisone): Reduces inflammation of the liver and assists in controlling symptoms.
  • Immunosuppressants (azathioprine): Minimizes the immune response to prevent further liver damage.
  • Clinical trials: Participation in ongoing trials for new immune therapies may be considered in certain cases.
  • Regular blood checks: Monitoring liver enzymes (ALT, AST) and immune markers is essential to track disease progression.
  • Liver investigation and biopsy: Ultrasound or liver biopsy may be needed to evaluate the extent of liver scarring (cirrhosis).
  • Lifestyle changes: Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, avoid alcohol completely, and manage stress to support liver health.

Book an Appointment Today

Wait no longer to have charge of your liver. The members of the team of board-certified specialists in autoimmune hepatitis at GastroDoxs in Cypress are prepared to offer personalized and compassionate care to patients not only at the initial diagnosis stage but also throughout the entire process of management. You can now reserve your consultation by calling us at 832-632-4070 or book online now to reserve your consultation. Let's work together to protect your liver and improve your quality of life.

1.5K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis?

Autoimmune hepatitis is diagnosed using a combination of blood tests to evaluate liver enzymes and detect autoantibodies, imaging tests to assess liver condition, and often a liver biopsy to confirm inflammation and rule out other conditions.

Is autoimmune hepatitis transmittable?

No, autoimmune hepatitis is not contagious. It is an autoimmune condition and cannot be passed from person to person.

What is the cause of autoimmune hepatitis?

The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers such as viral infections, medications, or hormonal changes.

Are there new modalities of treatment for autoimmune hepatitis?

Yes. In addition to standard corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, ongoing clinical trials are testing new immune-modulating therapies that may offer additional treatment options in the future.

What are the most common interventions in the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis?

The standard treatment includes corticosteroids like prednisone to reduce liver inflammation and immunosuppressants like azathioprine to control immune system activity. Treatment plans are tailored to individual patient needs.

What is the prognosis of patients with autoimmune hepatitis?

With early diagnosis and proper treatment, many patients can live long, healthy lives. Without treatment, the disease may progress to liver damage or cirrhosis.

Where can I get an expert on liver in Cypress?

At GastroDoxs Cypress, our team includes board-certified gastroenterologists and hepatologists experienced in autoimmune liver disease. You can schedule an appointment by phone or online.

Does stress exacerbate autoimmune hepatitis?

Stress does not directly cause autoimmune hepatitis but may worsen symptoms. Managing stress through exercise, mindfulness, or therapy can improve overall health and symptom control.

How frequently are liver tests supposed to be done?

Liver function tests are typically recommended every 3–6 months or as advised by your healthcare provider to monitor disease activity and adjust treatment as necessary.

What are areas of lifestyle modification that can be used to control autoimmune hepatitis?

Helpful lifestyle changes include avoiding alcohol entirely, following a balanced low-fat diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining consistent follow-up visits and lab tests with your healthcare provider.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

The Thyroid-Gut Connection: How Your Thyroid Affects Digestive Health

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Tips for Traveling With IBS

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Constipation After Surgery: Why It Happens and How to Manage It

Read More