Standard Treatment
The standard treatment for alcoholic hepatitis is abstinence from alcohol and supportive care. Abstinence from alcohol is absolutely necessary for any patient with alcoholic hepatitis. This includes complete avoidance of all alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine and liquor.
Supportive care helps reduce the severity of alcoholic hepatitis and can include medications such as corticosteroids, antibiotics and nutritional support. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation and can help with liver function. Antibiotics can be used to treat any infections that may be present. Nutritional support is also important to give the body the energy and vitamins it needs to heal.
Liver Transplantation
If the patient does not respond to medical treatment or if the disease progresses rapidly, a liver transplant may be necessary. A liver transplant is a major surgery that can replace a damaged liver with a healthy one. After a liver transplant, the patient must take medications to prevent rejection of the new organ and to maintain healthy liver function.
Alternative Treatments
Although there is no cure for alcoholic hepatitis, there are some alternative treatments that may help reduce symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. These treatments include massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga and meditation. These treatments can help reduce stress and anxiety, as well as boost the immune system.
Conclusion
Alcoholic hepatitis is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Treatment should include abstinence from alcohol and supportive care. If the patient does not respond to medical treatment or if the disease progresses rapidly, a liver transplant may be necessary. In addition, alternative treatments such as massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga and meditation can help reduce symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life.