Can cirrhosis caused by hepatitis B virus be treated with traditional Chinese medicine?

Dec 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

The effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment for patients with hepatitis B virus-related cirrhosis mainly depends on the severity of their condition. For early-stage cirrhosis, before decompensation occurs, appropriate use of TCM herbs such as Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen) and Angelica sinensis (Danggui) may help delay disease progression and regulate liver function. However, for patients with mid-to-late stage cirrhosis who have entered the decompensated phase, the efficacy of TCM treatment is limited, and timely liver transplantation according to medical advice is necessary.

Generally speaking, the term "hepatitis B virus" refers to the hepatitis B virus. When patients with cirrhosis are co-infected with the hepatitis B virus, whether Chinese herbal medicine can be effective mainly depends on the severity of the condition. If the condition is mild, taking Chinese herbal medicine as directed by a physician usually has some beneficial effect. However, if the condition is severe, the effectiveness of Chinese herbal medicine might be limited. If any discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If the cirrhosis is currently at an early stage and has not yet progressed to the decompensated phase, and liver function remains capable of normal metabolism, along with low viral load and no active replication of the hepatitis B virus, then taking Chinese herbal medicine as prescribed by a physician can usually have some therapeutic effect. Examples of such herbs include Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen), Angelica sinensis (Danggui), Paeonia lactiflora (Baishao), Prunus persica (Taoren), and Carthamus tinctorius (Honghua). These herbs have blood-activating and stasis-resolving effects, as well as anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Appropriate use by patients with cirrhosis may help delay disease progression, regulate liver function, and alleviate related symptoms.

However, if the cirrhosis is currently at an intermediate or advanced stage and has entered the decompensated phase, with complications such as ascites, gastrointestinal bleeding, or hepatic encephalopathy, and if the hepatitis B viral load is high and the virus is actively replicating, then the effectiveness of treatment with Chinese herbal medicine will likely be limited. In such cases, timely liver transplantation as guided by physicians is recommended. This involves transplanting a healthy liver into the patient to achieve therapeutic goals.

In addition, during the treatment period, patients with cirrhosis should maintain a positive mindset and avoid excessive anxiety or irritability. Regular follow-up visits are also necessary to adjust the treatment plan timely according to recovery progress.

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Can patients with hepatitis B take entecavir?

In general, "hepatitis B" refers to hepatitis B virus infection. Patients with chronic hepatitis B can take entecavir, which is a first-line antiviral drug in clinical treatment. Entecavir can effectively suppress hepatitis B virus replication and delay the progression of liver damage. However, it must be used properly under the guidance of a doctor; self-medication or stopping the medication without medical advice is not recommended. During treatment, patients should regularly undergo follow-up tests for liver function and viral markers.

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Can hepatitis B be cured?

In general, hepatitis B refers to Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Whether it can be cured depends on the specific situation. Most cases of acute hepatitis B can be completely cured, while chronic hepatitis B is currently difficult to eradicate entirely. However, with proper treatment, the condition can be effectively controlled over the long term, allowing patients to maintain a normal life. The key difference lies in the age at which the virus is acquired and the type of disease presentation. If you suspect or have been diagnosed with hepatitis B, it is recommended to seek timely medical care at a正规 hospital.

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Is it necessary to get a hepatitis B booster shot?

In general, whether a hepatitis B booster shot is necessary depends on the status of hepatitis B surface antibodies in the body. If the hepatitis B surface antibody is positive and the titer is sufficient, vaccination is usually not required. However, if the hepatitis B surface antibody is negative, or if the antibody is positive but the titer is insufficient, vaccination is recommended. To maintain liver health and reduce the risk of hepatitis B virus infection, it is advised to undergo regular hepatitis B antibody testing.

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What is the difference between "big three positive" and "small three positive" in hepatitis B?

Under normal circumstances, the main differences between hepatitis B "big three positives" and "small three positives" include different viral markers, varying levels of viral replication activity, differing degrees of infectivity, different risks of liver damage, and distinct treatment strategies. In addition, patients with either hepatitis B "big three positives" or "small three positives" should undergo regular liver function tests and hepatitis B virus DNA testing.