Liver Health: Questions After Acute Hepatitis Diagnosis

Questions about the liver?

Last year, I experienced suspected acute hepatitis, with GOT and GPT levels reaching as high as 2000.
This is true.
1.
I would like to ask if this poses any problems for me and whether there could be other complications.
2.
If I become ill again, could this trigger hepatitis once more, and should I inform my physician about this when taking medication? 3.
Do I need to have regular check-ups, or is it sufficient to return to normal GOT and GPT levels? 4.
Since the onset of my illness, I have been going to sleep almost every day around 1-2 AM, but during the illness, I experienced a rejection to "Gan An Neng" (a liver health supplement), and I rarely took medication.
Could there be other complications? Please provide clarification! Thank you.

atlan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/25

Dr. Chen Jingwen reply Internal Medicine

Hello,
1.
In cases of acute hepatitis, liver function abnormalities may rise to GOT/GPT levels above 2000.
If subsequent tests show normalization, it indicates that the acute hepatitis has resolved; however, it may progress to chronic hepatitis or may have fully healed.
This is particularly true for infections such as hepatitis B or C.
Additionally, one may become a carrier of hepatitis B surface antigen, while hepatitis C does not have a carrier state.
2.
If other illnesses arise or if the body's immune resistance decreases (such as due to lack of sleep), it may trigger an acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B or C, or acute episodes in hepatitis B carriers; however, this is not guaranteed.
It is important to clearly inform the physician about any history of acute hepatitis.
3.
Normalization of GOT/GPT levels may indicate that one is a carrier of hepatitis B surface antigen, or that they have recovered from hepatitis C infection.
It could also be due to alcoholic hepatitis or other conditions affecting liver function.
If it is related to hepatitis B or C, regular follow-up examinations are necessary.
If the hepatitis is alcohol-induced, abstaining from alcohol will resolve the issue.
For other conditions causing liver function abnormalities, as long as follow-up tests show normalization, it is considered satisfactory.
4.
"Liver Anning" is used to treat chronic persistent hepatitis B and early-stage liver cirrhosis, but it has certain limitations in use.
Adverse reactions to this medication do not necessarily indicate a disease; it may be related to individual constitution.
For further information regarding the usage guidelines of Liver Anning, please consult a specialist in hepatobiliary medicine at a hospital.

Reply Date: 2004/11/25

More Info

Understanding liver health, particularly after an acute hepatitis diagnosis, is crucial for managing your condition and preventing further complications. Based on your previous experiences and the questions you've raised, let's delve into the various aspects of liver health, particularly in relation to acute hepatitis.

1. Potential for Further Issues: Given that your GOT and GPT levels reached as high as 2000, this indicates a significant liver injury, which can be associated with acute hepatitis. While many individuals recover fully from acute hepatitis, there is a risk of developing chronic hepatitis, particularly if the underlying cause is viral (such as Hepatitis B or C). Chronic hepatitis can lead to further complications, including liver cirrhosis or even liver cancer over time. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor liver function and detect any potential complications early.

2. Risk of Recurrence: If you have a history of acute hepatitis, it is possible to experience a recurrence, especially if you are exposed to the same virus or if your immune system is compromised. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about your history of hepatitis when you are ill or starting new medications, as certain drugs can exacerbate liver conditions. Your doctor may need to adjust your treatment plan based on your liver health.

3. Need for Regular Monitoring: Regular monitoring of liver function tests (LFTs) is important even after your enzyme levels return to normal. While normalization of GOT and GPT is a good sign, it does not necessarily mean that your liver is completely healthy. You should have periodic blood tests to check for any signs of chronic liver disease, including hepatitis B or C viral load tests if applicable. Additionally, imaging studies like ultrasound may be recommended to assess liver structure and rule out any complications.

4. Sleep Patterns and Medication Reactions: Your sleep patterns and the reaction to "肝安能" (Gan An Neng) could indicate underlying issues. Poor sleep can affect your immune system and overall liver health, potentially hindering recovery. If you experience adverse reactions to medications, it is important to discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether these reactions are due to the medication itself or if there are other underlying health issues at play.

In summary, after an episode of acute hepatitis, it is vital to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. Regular check-ups, blood tests, and imaging studies are essential for monitoring your liver health. Lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can also support liver recovery and overall health. If you have any concerns about your symptoms or treatment, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

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