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Hepatitis
Treatment: Your doctor will discuss possible treatments with you, depending on the cause of your liver disease. Your doctor may recommend a high-calorie diet if you are losing weight. You can take these steps yourself: Eat most of your calories early in the day. Rest, especially when you feel symptoms. Support Groups: There are support groups for people with all types of hepatitis, which can help you learn about the latest treatments and better cope with having the disease. See liver disease support groups. Expectations (prognosis): Text Continues Below The outlook depends on many factors, including the cause of the hepatitis and whether or not you have additional illnesses or conditions that complicate treatment or recovery. Many people recover fully. However, it may take months for the liver to heal. Fifty percent of those with hepatitis C go on to have chronic liver disease and, possibly, liver failure (cirrhosis) or liver cancer. Hepatitis C is the number one reason for receiving a liver transplant in the United States today. Complications: Permanent liver damage, liver failure, or liver cancer can occur. Other complications include spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (when fluid in the abdomen becomes infected), and esophageal varices, which can bleed significantly. Calling your health care provider: Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>