What causes acute icteric hepatitis?

Generally, acute icteric hepatitis may be caused by factors such as low immunity, excessive fatigue and malnutrition, infection with hepatitis A virus, infection with hepatitis B virus, drug-induced liver injury, and others. If experiencing any discomfort, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Low Immunity

When the body's immunity is low, resistance to pathogens like viruses declines, making infections more likely. This can lead to liver inflammation and possibly acute icteric hepatitis. It's important to ensure adequate sleep daily, avoid staying up late, and allow the body sufficient rest. Eat a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins, such as lean meat, fish, and fresh fruits and vegetables, to enhance immunity. Engage in appropriate physical exercise, such as walking or jogging, to improve disease resistance.

2. Excessive Fatigue and Malnutrition

Long-term overexertion can leave the body depleted, and combined with insufficient nutrient intake, this can impair normal liver metabolism and repair functions, increasing the risk of developing acute icteric hepatitis. Work and rest schedules should be arranged reasonably to avoid prolonged high-intensity labor. Adjust your diet to ensure balanced nutrition, and supplement with nutritional supplements under a doctor's guidance if necessary. Balance work and rest to allow the liver sufficient time for self-repair.

3. Hepatitis A Virus Infection

The hepatitis A virus primarily spreads via the fecal-oral route. After infection, it attacks the liver, causing inflammation and damage to liver cells, resulting in symptoms such as jaundice. Treatment should be conducted under a doctor's guidance, using medications like reduced glutathione tablets, compound glycyrrhizin tablets, and silymarin capsules to protect liver cells. Isolation during treatment is necessary to prevent transmission to others; the patient's utensils and personal items should be washed and disinfected separately. Rest and a bland diet are recommended during treatment to promote liver recovery.

4. Hepatitis B Virus Infection

The hepatitis B virus can spread through blood or from mother to child. After infection, the virus replicates in the liver, damaging liver cells and causing acute icteric hepatitis, with some patients progressing to chronic hepatitis. Antiviral medications such as entecavir dispersible tablets, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablets, and adefovir dipivoxil tablets should be used under a doctor's guidance to suppress viral replication. Liver-protecting drugs may also be used in combination. Regular follow-up tests for liver function and viral load are necessary to monitor disease progression. Personal hygiene should be maintained, avoiding sharing personal items such as toothbrushes and razors that could lead to blood-borne transmission.

5. Drug-induced Liver Injury

Certain medications, such as anti-tuberculosis drugs and analgesics, can cause liver damage if improperly used, leading to acute icteric hepatitis, with symptoms typically appearing some time after drug administration. If drug-induced injury is suspected, the relevant medication should be stopped immediately, and medical attention should be sought promptly. Under medical guidance, liver-protecting drugs such as polyene phosphatidylcholine capsules, bicyclol tablets, and ursodeoxycholic acid capsules may be used to promote liver cell repair. Future medication use should strictly follow medical advice, avoiding self-medication or drug abuse.

In daily life, attention should be paid to food hygiene to avoid eating unclean food. Develop good living habits and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.