Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver often caused by different viruses (hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C). Drug or alcohol use can also cause hepatitis. In other cases, your body mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the liver. Some forms of hepatitis are mild, while others can be serious and lead to liver cancer or scarring.
Symptoms may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dark-colored urine and pale bowel movements
- Stomach pain
- Jaundice, yellowing of skin and eyes
Click to learn more about hepatitis.
How is Hepatitis Diagnosed?
- Hepatitis A. Blood tests
- Hepatitis B. Blood tests, or a liver biopsy if Dr. Bhatti suspects chronic hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C. Blood tests, or a liver biopsy if Dr. Bhatti suspects chronic hepatitis C
How is Hepatitis Treated?
Depending upon the results of your blood test, Dr. Bhatti will determine the best treatment for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A usually gets better in a few weeks without treatment. However, some people can have symptoms for up to 6 months. If so, Dr. Bhatti may suggest medicines to help relieve your symptoms. If symptoms persist after 6 months, then you should see your doctor again.
When you recover, your body will have learned to fight off a future hepatitis A infection. However, you can still get other kinds of hepatitis.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is not usually treated unless it becomes chronic. Chronic hepatitis B is treated with medicines that slow or stop the virus from damaging the liver.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is also usually not treated unless it becomes chronic. Chronic hepatitis C is treated with medicines that slow or stop the virus from damaging the liver. Dr. bhatti will closely monitor your symptoms and schedule regular blood tests to make sure the treatment is working.
Minnesota Hepatitis Doctor
Schedule an appointment if you notice any of the symptoms listed above or have any other liver or digestive concerns. Dr. Bhatti is board-certified and has decades of experience treating patients throughout the state of Minnesota.
Locations
Chaska GI Clinic
1457 White Oak Dr
Chaska, MN 55318
Phone: 952-368-3800
Fax: 952-368-3801
St. Francis Regional Medical Center
1515 St. Francis Ave. #250
Shakopee, MN 55379
Phone: 952-368-3800
Fax: 952-368-3801
Edina GI Clinic
6500 Barrie Rd.
Edina, MN 55435
Phone: 952-368-3800
Fax: 952-368-3801