How to treat Hepatitis [VIDEO]

The information is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical advice and we recommend that all decisions about your treatment or products you wish to use should be discussed thoroughly and frankly with your doctor. Over 85,000 new cases of hepatitis are diagnosed yearly in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control. The CDC defines hepatitis as a family of viral diseases that impact the liver. Five of the six types of hepatitis are defined by letter distinctions. According to the Mayo Clinic, hepatitis A is a mild infection that generally causes flu-like symptoms. 

The Mayo Clinic states hepatitis C often causes a life-long illness that can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer. According to the World Health Organization, hepatitis D and E are rarely found within the United State, but are common in developing countries. The Mayo Clinic describes alcoholic hepatitis as generally tied to long-term alcohol abuse. The basic treatment for all forms of hepatitis is rest, a diet filled with fresh fruits and vegetables and avoidance of items that could cause further liver damage according to the Mayo Clinic. Avoiding alcohol, herbal supplements and all drugs not prescribed by a physician is advised by the Mayo Clinic.

Treatments for hepatitis A, B and E generally take the "wait and see approach" as there are no specific treatment plans for these infections according to the World Health Organization. Medical oversight may be needed to help control symptoms and the Mayo Clinic states antiviral medications may be prescribed based on your condition and length of illness.