AutoImmune Hep

[BonPlayer]

Hi, new to this forum. I was diagnosed about 15 yrs ago with AIH by a biopsy and bloodworks. My understanding of the disease is that our Immune system is so strong it attacks itself, in this case thinking the Liver is a foriegn body. I am on Prednisone (20mg due to a relapse) usually 5 mg daily. Once your body adjusts to the the drug it makes a difference. The important thing I know from experience is that you have to make sure to suppliment. A good quality daily, milk thistle which is a strong detoxifier, no heavy proteins (whey powder protein is excellent) no red meats, heavy fats. Eat whole grain oatmeal. I know this all sounds like alot but it has kept me functioning for a long time with no change in my liver. I hate taking drugs but after all this time I know I have to stay on an immune system supressant or my liver will be in danger from my own body (thats why I relapsed, took a chance and went to just homeopathic resulting in spiking of liver numbers edema and encephalopothy). I believe I can keep this liver if I am totally committed to diet, exercise and the small amount of meds the Doctor has me take. My main concern now is getting rid of the ammonia in my brain due to build up of toxins. Any one else have that problem?

[Here987]

If you have AIH and ammonia build-up, you should be avoiding all protein, and you will be prescribed Lactulose or a similar drug to rid your body of ammonia. The ammonia isn't "in your brain", but it will cause brain dysfunction, confusion. It is essential for people with liver-related ammonia build-up to remove all protein. If this truly is your problem, your doctor should be explaining this. Please discuss this with him or her.

Are you taking Imuran or something similar along with Prednisone? If not, why not?  Imuran (azathioprine) will allow you to take a lower dose of Prednisone; it's known as a "steroid-sparing" drug.

Unfortunately, diet and exercise won't take care of AIH. They're good adjuncts, improving your over-all health, but only medications will keep your AIH under control. I say "heal" because AIH is a life-long disorder; it never goes away. However, it can be managed.

Mine was diagnosed eight years ago. I was in extremely bad shape, but now I'm doing well.

Best wishes.

[Jody515]

What kind of test did they do on you to make you think you have ammonia build up in brain?  Oh, never mind, I think I know, do you sometimes have little kind of go off sessions where things aren't really there?  I know someone who went thru that is why I say that.  
Everything back down to normal as far as your numbers now since you went back on the medicines?  Hope so, stay in touch.  Jody