Hello - New Member

[erica14]

Wow, I've learned there are a lot of people out there going through the same thing I am.  It's nice to know I am not the only one who feels like a Macy's Thanksgiving balloon because on the medicine.  I am just coming to terms with this whole disease.  I learned I have autoimmune hepatitis in June of 2007...and it's been a nightmear since.  The medicines are working but the side effects are wicked.  My family is a huge support system, however I feel they can not understand how I am feeling.  So that is why I am here.  Anyone care to say hello, please do.

[rjp1nyc]

hope you are doing well.  I may have to get tested for this as well soon.  A bit nervous.  What type of side effects are you having.  Even if they are bad remember that soon youi'll feel a lot better.  Good luck.  This will all be over soon.

[kaybe237]

Hi. I just found out I have autoimmune hepatitis. I am in shock as well. I started on the Prednisone yesterday.  I am scared of the weight gain, but my Dr. assured me that he only wants me on for no more than 8 weeks and then wants to move me to the other medication.  He knows I will gain weight and retain water, but he says it will all be temporary. That is hard to hear and absorb when you know how it will affect your life, even if it is only for 8 weeks.  It will be very hard to get that weight back off.  

I have been feeling pretty badly for 2 months, and this last weeks has been truly horrible with severe joint pain and fever.  Today is the first day I have felt semi-normal in a long time.

I hope you are doing okay. It is not easy news to receive. Even though it is treatable, it is also life altering......

[Jody515]

Side effects will wear off with time.  As will the weight gain go back off as your prednisone intake goes down & your body adjusts.  Everyone of us understands how you are feeling & I remember very clearly how horrible & depressing it was to learn.  It is very shocking to learn that your body doesn't accept some of it's own organs.  Best of luck, Jody

[ConcernedMom1987]

My daughter who is 18 was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis in Oct. 2007.  The doctor says it is most likely drug induced by the minocycline she was taking for acne.  She was immediately put on 60 mg of prednisone a day.  Her face became very round and she gained some weight, not to mention the havoc it played with her emotions.  She has now decreased the dosage and feels better.  We are keeping a close eye on her labs.  Her enzymes increased a bit with her last test, so that is somewhat of a concern for me, but the doctor didn't seem concerned.  

Hope you are doing okay.

I say a lot of prayers.