Autoimmune Hepatitis (The Hidden Attack): Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Prevention

What is Autoimmune Hepatitis?

Autoimmune Hepatitis is a type of liver disease. In this condition, your immune system attacks your liver by mistake. As a result, the liver becomes inflamed and can get damaged over time. Although anyone can get it, women are more likely to develop this disease. Early detection is key because untreated Autoimmune Hepatitis can lead to serious liver problems. According to the CDC, this disease is rare but can affect people of all ages.

Common Symptoms

Often, signs of Autoimmune Hepatitis are mild at first. However, symptoms can get worse if not treated. Some people may not notice any symptoms until the disease has progressed. Still, it is important to watch for these signs:

Fatigue or feeling very tired

Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side

Joint pain or swelling

Loss of appetite

Dark urine

Nausea or vomiting

Itchy skin

Sometimes, people may only find out they have Autoimmune Hepatitis after a routine blood test. Therefore, regular check-ups are important.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors do not know the exact cause of Autoimmune Hepatitis. However, it happens when the immune system attacks healthy liver cells. Several factors may increase your risk:

Family history of autoimmune diseases

Being female

Having other autoimmune conditions, like type 1 diabetes or thyroid disease

Certain infections or medicines

Genetic factors

Even though these risks exist, not everyone with them will develop the disease. But knowing your risk can help you stay alert to early signs.

How Autoimmune Hepatitis is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps for autoimmune liver disease diagnosis. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may order blood tests to check liver function and look for specific antibodies. These antibodies are often present in people with Autoimmune Hepatitis. In addition, doctors may use imaging tests, like ultrasound, to see the liver. Sometimes, a liver biopsy is needed. This test involves taking a small piece of liver tissue to check for damage. Early diagnosis helps prevent serious liver problems.

Treatment Options

Treatment for Autoimmune Hepatitis aims to control the immune system and reduce liver inflammation. Most people need long-term treatment. Common options include:

Steroid medicines, such as prednisone, to lower immune activity

Other medicines, like azathioprine, to help the steroids work better

Regular blood tests to monitor liver health

In rare cases, if the liver is badly damaged, a liver transplant may be needed. However, most people respond well to medicine when started early.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

While preventing autoimmune hepatitis completely is not always possible, you can take steps to protect your liver. For example:

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables

Avoid alcohol and limit processed foods

Take medicines only as prescribed

Get regular check-ups and blood tests

Stay active with regular exercise

Additionally, managing stress and getting enough sleep can help your immune system. These steps may not prevent the disease, but they support overall liver health.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice symptoms like yellow skin, ongoing tiredness, or stomach pain, see a doctor soon. Early treatment can prevent serious liver damage. Also, if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases, regular check-ups are important. Remember, only a doctor can diagnose and recommend the right treatment for autoimmune hepatitis.

If you notice symptoms or have concerns about your liver health, consult a gastroenterologist at SURABHI HOSPITAL for personalized advice.