Living with Autoimmune Hepatitis

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People with autoimmune hepatitis need regular medical follow-up to ensure that the disease is under control and that treatment is working properly. This follow-up includes periodic blood tests to assess liver function and adjust medication if necessary. 

A liver elastography, a non-invasive test using ultrasound to measure liver stiffness, is also performed regularly. This information helps specialists monitor the progression of fibrosis and determine whether the liver is stable or is showing signs of damage.  

In addition to having routine check-ups, healthy lifestyle habits must also be maintained. 

Bland or astringent diet with rice, fish and bananas

There is no evidence, however, that any specific diet improves outcomes in people with AIH. The best recommendation is to follow a normal, healthy, balanced diet and avoid obesity; as the latter can increase the risk of metabolic liver disease and complicate AIH.  

Two beer mugs crossed out indicating that alcohol is forbidden.

Alcohol consumption is generally discouraged for all patients with AIH and is strictly prohibited for those with liver cirrhosis.  

Person exercising in the right way

Exercise is recommended for overall health, although it has no specific benefit for people with AIH. 

Pill with warning sign

Some people with AIH may also have other conditions and require additional medication. In general, no prescribed medications are contraindicated in AIH. However, patients with cirrhosis should strictly avoid anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Enantyum and ibuprofen). Paracetamol is safe for all patients, even those with established cirrhosis.  

Herbal products

However, non-prescription products, such as herbal remedies and supplements, are not recommended, since many are metabolised by the liver and their potential for liver toxicity cannot be predicted. In any case, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting to take any such products. 

Substantiated information by:

María Carlota Londoño Hurtado
Pinelopi Arvaniti

Published: 27 October 2025
Updated: 30 October 2025

The donations that can be done through this webpage are exclusively for the benefit of Hospital Clínic of Barcelona through Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica and not for BBVA Foundation, entity that collaborates with the project of PortalClínic.

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