Definition:
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver; it is caused by a viral infection.
There are different types of hepatitis. Hepatitis A, B, or C. Hepatitis
A is known as infectious hepatitis. It is easily spread through
personal contact. It is contagious between 2 to 3 weeks before or
one week after jaundice appears. After being infected with hepatitis
A, a person usually becomes immune to future infections. Hepatitis
B is also known as serum hepatitis. It is spread from contact with
infected blood, most commonly contaminated syringes, needles, and
some forms of sexual activity. Most cases of hepatitis B come and
go unrecognized. However it may cause irreversible liver damage
possibly leading to cancer. Hepatitis B is the 9th leading cause
of death in the United States. Hepatitis C is the most common form
of hepatitis. It is almost always contracted through blood transfusions.
But it can also be contracted through intravenous drug use and sexual
contact involving broken skin or damaged mucous membranes.
Symptoms:
Hepatitis is very difficult to recognize. With forms A and B the patients usually
appears jaundice, meaning that they begin to take on a yellowish
color of the skin. This is usually found on palms, soles of feet,
or in the white of the eyes. Hepatitis C may not have any symptoms,
except usual fatigue, until the disease has progressed. Most people
never know that they have hepatitis until they give blood or have
a simple blood test. Basic blood chemistry can indicate that hepatitis
is present. The specific type of hepatitis can be determined by
testing the blood for the type of hepatitis present.
Holistic Treatment Plan:
Treating this condition consists of liver support, detoxification
of the body, and immune support. Diet is also important. Alcohol
must be completely eliminated, refined sugars, and excess fat should
also be dramatically reduced.
References:
Tierra, M., The Way of Herbs, Pocket Books, New York, NY 1990
Blotner, H., M.D., and Murphey, W.P.,M.D., JAMA, Vol. 92, p 1322
Packer, L. et al, AAlpha-lipoic acid as a biological antioxidant@,
Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 1995; 19; 227-50.
Werbach, M.R, M.D. Nutritional Influences on Illness, and A sourcebook
of clinical research, 2nd ed. Tarzana, CA: third Line Press, 1993.
Disclaimer:
All information given here is for educational purposes only. For a proper diagnosis and
treatment plan you must consult your health care practitioner.
