Re: Foods, Medications and HBV

Posted By HFHSM.D.-D.M. on April 16, 1999 at 17:35:42

Topic Area: Hepatitis B
In 1995, I went to my doctor for stomach pains, vomiting and fatigue.  I was told that I had been exposed to Hepatitis B.  I was told to take a week off from work, and to come back for another round of blood work in two weeks.  After my second round of blood tests, I was told that my liver enzyme levels had returned to normal.  What I was not told was what foods and medications to avoid, and what to do if any of the symptoms re-appear.  Also, how do I know whether or not the HBV is causing damage to my liver?
Thanks!
Ricky




Dear Rick:
I was intrigued by your story and your questions.  What we really need to is to sort out your hepatitis B status.  The good news is that should be very easy to do.  When someone is infected with hepatitis B, they become positive in the blood for the hepatitis B surface antigen.  Fortunately, over 95% of adults who are exposed just clear the infection on their own and are then permanently immune.  Patients who clear the infection develop the hepatitis B surface antibody in their blood.  Patients who remain infected chronically (the minority) remain positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen.  I would simply ask your physician to do a hepatitis B surface antigen and a hepatitis B surface antibody.  
Either way we dont recommend specific diets for most of our hepatitis B patients.  We ask that they eat healthy in a general way including diets rich in fruits, vegetables, chicken and fish.  
I hope this information is helpful to you. Good luck and let me know what you find out.  As always, you can post additional information through MEDHELP or contact us directly at Henry Ford.  The direct number to our liver clinic is: [phone]. At Henry Ford, we have an active group of liver specialists with experience with hepatitis B.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation.  Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.  












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