Strict sodium and fluid restrictions

[Michelle5060]

I am 50 years old, and was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis about 5 months ago.  I do have some cirrhosis and ascites.  I am currently on 40mg of prednisone, as well as an antibiotic for the ascites and spironolactone for fluid retention.  I've read over alot of posts, but not seen anyone mention diet restrictions.  Anyone?  My doctor has instructed me to have no added sodium...nothing in a box, bottle, jar, or can, etc.  Also has restricted my fluid intake to 24 ounces a day.  I find the fluid restriction to be almost impossible, but if I get off track too much, my belly will swell up and the pitting edema in my legs gets worse.  
Has anyone experienced these sympoms,etc.?
Thanks!  Michelle

[Michelle5060]

Debbie,
The ascites developed before the prednisone and was actually one of the main reasons I knew something was wrong.  Since my last post I have gone through a liver transplant evaluation and will be placed on the list.  My current MELD is 16.  Prednisone has recently been lowered to 10mg with 50mg of imuran.  I'm anxious to see how my body tolerates Imuran...hoping it is better than prednisone!  I am still on sodium and fluid restrictions, but the fluid has been increased to a managable 1 litre daily!  Yeehaw!  
Hope all is well with you!

[Debbie22]

Hello Michelle!

I have autoimmune hepatitis but fortunatelly I don't have fluid retention so my doctor didn't put me on medication and I don't have sodium or liquids intake restrictions. Just curiosity, did you developed ascites before or after starting taking prednisone?? Read all the side effects of prednisone, it might be that it is related to the prednisone or prednisone is causing the water retension to be worse... just a thought.
Keep us posted of your experience ok?? It might be helpful for all of us that have AIH for future reference and to compare our experiences. Best Wishes!