Knowledge/experience with cirrhosis caused by autoimmune hepatitis?

[Tohru]

Just wondering.

Some one dear to me was recently diagnosed and has ascites. Specialist Dr.'s appointment isn't for a few weeks and I'm tired of googling.

Edited December 28, 2016 by Tohru

[Suzanne in ABQ]

My mom has autoimmune hepatitis and "primary biliary cirrhosis".  It is under control with medication (has been for over 10 years).  My friend, a pathologist, explained that the term "primary" means that she has a condition that could cause cirrhosis, but that she doesn't actually have cirrhosis (or other liver damage).  She doesn't have ascites.

 

Do you have specific questions?  

 

 

 

[Tohru]

Thank you, I'm glad to hear that she's well and it's under control. We just want to know the prognosis on life expectancy and life quality. Waiting for the appointment with the specialist is so hard. :(

[JudoMom]

I have AIH, but was diagnosed one stage before cirrhosis and have been on meds since 2011. I'm sorry you're having to go through this with someone you care about.

[Zydruna]

My mom has AIH that is being controlled with medication. No cirrhosis thankfully. One thing that her liver specialist told her, which I thought was interesting and surprising, was that she needs to drink AT LEAST 4 cups of coffee per day, and 8 would be even better. Doesn't matter if it is decaf or regular or an iced mocha, just get at least 4 servings of coffee in somehow. I have not researched this myself, but her primary doctor agreed that it was a good idea.

[Serenade]

My mom has AIH that is being controlled with medication. No cirrhosis thankfully. One thing that her liver specialist told her, which I thought was interesting and surprising, was that she needs to drink AT LEAST 4 cups of coffee per day, and 8 would be even better. Doesn't matter if it is decaf or regular or an iced mocha, just get at least 4 servings of coffee in somehow. I have not researched this myself, but her primary doctor agreed that it was a good idea.

Interesting

[wonderchica]

My mom has AIH that is being controlled with medication. No cirrhosis thankfully. One thing that her liver specialist told her, which I thought was interesting and surprising, was that she needs to drink AT LEAST 4 cups of coffee per day, and 8 would be even better. Doesn't matter if it is decaf or regular or an iced mocha, just get at least 4 servings of coffee in somehow. I have not researched this myself, but her primary doctor agreed that it was a good idea.

I wonder if this is for the laxative effect? When you do progress to cirrhosis, above average BMs are essential. My father is waiting for a liver transplant and his doctors want him to go 4-5 times EVERY DAY!