Hepatitis A, B, C
Integrative liver support and naturopathic protocols for viral hepatitis
Understanding Viral Hepatitis
Viral hepatitis causes inflammation of the liver and can range from a mild, self-limiting illness to a chronic condition that leads to serious liver damage. At Arizona Integrative Medical Center, we provide comprehensive support for all forms of viral hepatitis.
Our integrative approach works alongside conventional treatment to protect liver function, support your immune system, reduce viral activity, and promote recovery. We can help whether you're dealing with acute hepatitis or managing a chronic infection.
Collaborative Care
We work collaboratively with your hepatologist or primary care physician to provide complementary support that enhances your conventional treatment and protects your liver health.
Types of Viral Hepatitis
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is typically an acute, self-limiting infection transmitted through contaminated food or water. Most people recover fully, but supportive care can speed recovery and reduce symptoms.
- Acute illness lasting weeks to months
- Does not cause chronic infection
- Symptoms: fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, jaundice
- Prevention: vaccination available
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B can be acute or chronic. While most adults clear the virus, chronic hepatitis B requires ongoing management to prevent liver damage and complications.
- Transmitted through blood and body fluids
- 90% of infected adults clear the virus
- Chronic infection can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer
- Prevention: vaccination available
- Treatment: antiviral medications, liver support
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through blood and frequently becomes chronic. Modern antiviral treatments can now cure most cases, and integrative support enhances treatment success.
- 75-85% of infections become chronic
- Often asymptomatic for years
- Can cause cirrhosis and liver cancer if untreated
- Curable with direct-acting antiviral medications
- No vaccine currently available
Symptoms of Hepatitis
Hepatitis symptoms can range from mild to severe:
- Fatigue: Often profound and debilitating
- Abdominal discomfort: Pain or fullness in upper right abdomen
- Jaundice: Yellowing of skin and eyes
- Dark urine: Tea or cola-colored
- Pale stools: Clay-colored bowel movements
- Nausea and appetite loss: Common in acute infection
- Joint pain: Especially with hepatitis B
- Fever: Low-grade, especially in acute phase
Our Integrative Approach
We provide comprehensive support for hepatitis patients:
1. Liver Protection & Support
Milk Thistle (Silymarin)
The most studied herb for liver protection. Silymarin has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and liver-regenerating properties.
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)
Precursor to glutathione, the liver's primary detoxification molecule. Supports liver function and reduces oxidative stress.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Powerful antioxidant that regenerates other antioxidants and supports liver cell energy production.
Phosphatidylcholine
Essential for liver cell membrane integrity and supports repair of damaged liver tissue.
2. IV Therapy for Hepatitis
High-Dose Vitamin C
Antiviral properties and powerful antioxidant support for the liver. Helps reduce viral load and inflammation.
Glutathione IV
Direct delivery of the liver's master detoxifier. Especially important in hepatitis where glutathione is depleted.
Ozone Therapy
Major autohemotherapy has been shown to reduce viral load and improve liver enzymes in hepatitis patients.
Phospholipid Exchange
IV phosphatidylcholine therapy supports liver cell repair and regeneration.
3. Antiviral Support
- Licorice root (glycyrrhizin): Traditional antiviral with documented activity against hepatitis viruses
- Schisandra: Liver-protective herb with antiviral properties
- Astragalus: Immune-modulating herb that supports antiviral defense
- Selenium: Essential mineral for antiviral immune response
- Zinc: Supports immune function and may inhibit viral replication
4. Dietary Support
Proper nutrition is essential for liver health:
- Anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables and lean proteins
- Avoidance of alcohol (essential for liver healing)
- Limiting processed foods and added sugars
- Adequate protein for liver regeneration
- Cruciferous vegetables for detoxification support
- Limiting iron-rich foods in hepatitis C (iron promotes viral replication)
5. Lifestyle Modifications
- Complete alcohol abstinence
- Avoiding hepatotoxic medications when possible
- Stress management (stress worsens liver inflammation)
- Adequate rest during acute phases
- Gentle exercise as tolerated during recovery
Supporting Conventional Treatment
For patients undergoing pharmaceutical antiviral treatment (especially for Hepatitis C), we provide:
- Liver support during treatment to minimize side effects
- Nutritional optimization for better treatment outcomes
- Management of treatment side effects
- Post-treatment support for full recovery
- Prevention of reinfection strategies
Monitoring Progress
We regularly monitor liver enzymes (ALT, AST), viral load when applicable, and overall liver function to track your progress and adjust treatment. Our goal is normalized liver function and, when possible, complete viral clearance.
Support Your Liver Health
Whether you're managing chronic hepatitis or recovering from an acute infection, our integrative approach can help protect your liver, reduce viral activity, and support your recovery.
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