Treatment of jaundice and liver diseases in hospital
Jaundice is noticeable to the naked eye. You don't need to be a doctor to understand that something is wrong: a person's sclera and skin turn yellow, their urine darkens, and they experience weakness and itching.
This is not a diagnosis, but a symptom. Bilirubin in the blood increases, and the body is unable to process or eliminate it. Jaundice is treated in hospital, but if the situation is not critical, you can stay at home.
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Causes of liver damage and types of hepatitis
The liver can be damaged by viruses, alcohol, toxins, medications, and also by obstructed bile flow (cholestasis). Treatment depends on the underlying cause: in some cases, antiviral medications are needed, while in others, stopping the body's exposure to toxins is necessary.
Viral hepatitis (A, B, C)
Hepatitis A is often asymptomatic. Without testing, the disease may not even be noticed. However, it all depends on the immune system and liver health. Organ damage in this case is minimal.
Hepatitis B and C are visible externally. If left untreated, the disease can become chronic. In advanced cases, cirrhosis or fibrosis can develop.
If the disease is suspected, hepatitis treatment should be started immediately in a hospital. The department's doctors will conduct diagnostics, take tests, and prescribe treatment.
Toxic and alcohol-related injuries
Alcohol and certain medications can damage liver enzymes and increase inflammation. The key here is to eliminate the cause and restore metabolism. Inpatient detoxification and support are provided if necessary, especially in cases of severe intoxication and coagulation disorders.
Advantages of inpatient treatment
The liver is our main filter. If there is a suspicion of cell destruction, treatment must begin immediately. In the hospital, they will take tests, perform an ultrasound, assess the risk of complications, and begin treatment. No waiting, just fast help.
If necessary, infusion therapy is prescribed. With hepatitis, dietary changes are always necessary. In the hospital, patients with this diagnosis are placed on a special diet. This is another advantage: you don't have to develop your own menu.
Diagnostic methods in the hospital
First, the type of jaundice, its cause, and the extent of liver damage are determined. The doctor looks at the symptoms and test results.
To determine the treatment plan, a complete blood count, biochemistry, and coagulation profile are performed, bilirubin and liver enzymes are measured, and tests for hepatitis are performed.
Laboratory tests (bilirubin, ALT/AST enzymes)
The main indicators are bilirubin and liver enzymes (ALT/AST). They indicate the presence of inflammation and the extent of liver cell damage. Coagulation parameters are also assessed, as the liver is involved in the synthesis of coagulation factors.
Instrumental diagnostics (ultrasound, elastometry)
Ultrasound can be used to visualize the liver, gallbladder, and ducts, and to detect signs of cholestasis. Elastometry is needed to assess the degree of fibrosis: this is important to understand how far the process has progressed and whether there is a risk of cirrhosis.
Main directions of inpatient therapy
In hospital, doctors always detoxify, prescribe treatment to support the liver, and determine the cause of hepatitis.
Detoxification therapy
If weakness, nausea, or dehydration are present, detoxification therapy must be addressed. Detoxification therapy and infusion therapy are prescribed for this purpose. This can improve well-being, relieve symptoms, and allow treatment to begin without pain or discomfort.
Antiviral treatment and hepatoprotectors
If jaundice is caused by a virus, antiviral medications are prescribed. Another advantage of hospitalized hepatitis treatment is constant monitoring of progress. If therapy is ineffective, doctors perform tests to determine what can be done.
Hepatoprotectors for hepatitis are used as a supportive measure. They do not replace primary treatment. These medications are prescribed only by a doctor; you should not add any additional medications to the treatment on your own.
Diet and nutrition regimen (Table No. 5)
The liver is already overloaded. Therefore, the patient needs to help it cope with the disease. Avoid fatty, fried, and smoked foods. It's best to eat small portions, 4-5 times a day. Food should be warm and soft.
A diet for liver disease is prescribed by a doctor, but diet #5 is usually prescribed.
Prognosis and rehabilitation after discharge
The prognosis depends on the cause and how early treatment is started. With hepatitis C, the chance of a complete cure is high. With hepatitis B, doctors focus on protecting the liver.
After discharge from the hospital, you should continue treatment, undergo ultrasounds, and follow a diet. Physical activity will need to be limited. Alcohol and cigarettes are completely avoided.
Table: Types of jaundice
| Type of jaundice | Main cause | Manifestation features |
|---|---|---|
| Suprahepatic | Increased red blood cell destruction | Increased indirect bilirubin, liver enzymes, often without a sharp rise |
| Hepatic (parenchymal) | Liver tissue damage (hepatitis, toxic damage) | Increased bilirubin and liver enzymes, weakness, possible intoxication |
| Subhepatic | Biliary obstruction (cholestasis, bile duct blockage) | Itching, dark urine, light-colored stool, dilated bile ducts on ultrasound |
FAQ
Can I treat moderate jaundice at home?
What happens if bilirubin is high?
Can hepatitis C be completely cured?
Important: This information is for informational purposes only. Consult a specialist. Self-medication is life-threatening.
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What is jaundice and when is hospitalization required?
Jaundice comes in different forms: suprahepatic, hepatic, and subhepatic. The most common is hepatic, or parenchymal. It primarily affects the liver, but the gallbladder can also be affected.
Hospitalization for jaundice is necessary if a person experiences severe weakness, fever, vomiting, and pain under the ribs.
Another reason to go to the hospital is very high bilirubin and a persistent deterioration in blood test results, even while taking medication. Inpatient treatment for jaundice allows for rapid stabilization and a return to normal life.