Autoimmune Hepatitis

Overview

You may or may not have noticeable signs or symptoms of AIH. A healthcare provider will begin by giving you a physical exam and some routine tests, such as imaging and blood tests. A blood test called a comprehensive metabolic panel will show evidence of liver disease. The panel includes a selection of liver function tests that measure liver enzymes and inflammation, among other things.

These indicators aren’t specific to autoimmune hepatitis, though. Your provider will do additional blood work to check for specific viruses and other causes of hepatitis. They’ll also look for autoantibodies. When they’ve ruled out other causes and identified the antibodies associated with autoimmune hepatitis, they’ll be ready to confirm the diagnosis. The best way to do this is with a liver biopsy.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.