What fruits to eat for viral hepatitis?

Written by Zhang Jian Kang
Infectious Disease
Updated on October 26, 2024
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Viral hepatitis patients can eat most fruits as there are not many restrictions, and fruits generally are good to eat. Fruits contain a high amount of vitamins, especially vitamin C, which can help repair the liver when consumed by patients. However, for some special patients, especially those with cirrhosis or liver failure who are at risk of bleeding, or even after a significant gastrointestinal bleeding, eating hard, difficult-to-digest fruits is not beneficial for recovery. Consuming hard fruits might exacerbate bleeding, and eating hard-to-digest fruits might lead to symptoms such as upper abdominal discomfort, poor appetite, and nausea or vomiting after eating.

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Written by Ye Xi Yong
Infectious Diseases
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How to test for viral hepatitis?

Viral hepatitis is primarily caused by hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E viruses. However, its diagnosis is mainly confirmed through blood tests by examining serological results. It is generally difficult to differentiate clinically because conditions like hepatitis A and E have very similar clinical manifestations. Similarly, hepatitis B and C can show similar symptoms during certain stages of the disease. Therefore, the examination of viral hepatitis primarily involves blood tests for serological studies of the hepatitis virus.

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Written by Ye Xi Yong
Infectious Diseases
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How long can viral hepatitis last?

The lifespan of someone with viral hepatitis is closely linked to the severity of their condition and also greatly depends on the patient's own actions. There are many influencing factors, and it is not possible to generalize. If the patient adheres to conventional treatment, regular check-ups, rests adequately, maintains a sensible diet, and abstains from alcohol, most conditions can be effectively managed, significantly reducing the chances of the disease progressing further. Therefore, patients need not worry excessively; maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude can further aid in recovery from the disease.

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Infectious Disease
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Dietary care for viral hepatitis

Patients with viral hepatitis generally have noticeable gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms, such as fatigue, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, and bloating after eating. Therefore, it is advisable for patients with viral hepatitis to maintain a low-fat, light diet. Vegetables and fruits are fine to consume, but greasy foods, such as meat, are not recommended. If meat is desired, white meats like fish are preferable, while red meats are advised against. If viral hepatitis is accompanied by other diseases such as hepatic encephalopathy, it is recommended not to consume soy products and eggs. Patients with viral hepatitis often have concurrent gallbladder diseases, so consuming eggs or greasy foods may exacerbate symptoms and cause significant upper abdominal discomfort.

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Written by Zhang Jian Kang
Infectious Disease
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What are the symptoms of viral hepatitis?

Viral hepatitis primarily includes liver inflammation and damage caused by pathogens such as hepatitis A, B, C, E, etc. Their clinical symptoms are quite similar, mainly characterized by fatigue, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating after eating, jaundice, and dark urine. In cases of chronic liver diseases, such as chronic hepatitis caused by hepatitis B or C, if prolonged, it can also lead to facial features typical of liver disease, spider angiomas, and enlarged spleen. Once cirrhosis occurs, the patient may experience hepatic encephalopathy, gastrointestinal bleeding, abdominal distension with water accumulation, and significant abdominal tenderness. Thus, the symptoms of viral hepatitis relate to both the cause of the hepatitis and the type of hepatitis.

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Written by Zhang Jian Kang
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Do you need a blood transfusion for viral hepatitis?

The treatment of viral hepatitis generally does not require blood transfusion. The primary treatment methods for viral hepatitis include ensuring plenty of rest, eating smaller and more frequent meals, and paying attention to diet. Additionally, medications that protect the liver, reduce enzyme levels, and alleviate jaundice can be used. For viral hepatitis caused by hepatitis B or C, formal antiviral treatment is also necessary. If liver damage is extremely severe, leading to liver failure and very high bilirubin levels, artificial liver treatment can be administered. Artificial liver treatment is of two types: one is plasma exchange, commonly referred to as a blood transfusion, and the other is protein adsorption; both of these methods are relatively effective.