My husband was diagnosed with chronic Hepatitis B some time ago. His recent lab results show a viral load of over 8,000 IU/mL and an ALT level of 36 U/L. He’s over 30, and his hepatologist has advised that he doesn’t need to start medication at this stage.
Right now, he’s focusing on supporting his liver health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and by avoiding alcohol and sugar. He’s due for another check-up in six months. In the meantime, are there any other recommendations to help reduce his viral load or better manage his condition?
Thank you.
It’s interesting how every doctor seems to have a different opinion. I am 35 years old and my mom has it. She knew when she was pregnant.
Is he hbeag positive?
Anyways, I have only found out personally this January for my first plasma blood donation. Test after test I have been learning what stage I am at.
My ALT has always been around 42-56 for most of my past tests. Never thought too much of it.
I got my first viral load test at the end of March at 204 IU along with a 52 ALT by a gastrointerologist and was prescribed tenofovir because she "wanted it to be 0. " I was hesitant about this because this was my only test and I wanted a 2nd opinion.
I did a general checkup with my general doctor a month later in April (no hbv viral load test, ALT etc only) and it was 71 ALT.
She referred me to a different hepatologist and I got another viral load test and a lot of other tests to get a reference of any possible liver damage at the end of May. My result was an ALT of 50 and viral load 5500…
Makes me wonder what my viral load was when my ALT was 71 or if these things coorelate together… I was also surprised how quickly things can change month to month. I was hoping to just be an “inactive carrier”
But I am hbeag negative and my new hepatologist doctor started me on tenofovir because of these results.
My liver results and fibroscan all came back normal.
Since January I have stopped drinking alcohol and trying to maintain even healthier habits so I was surprised by the increase in viral load…I just wanted to give you some insight that things can change quite a bit. Not sure if it was just my personal circumstance
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Hi @anonymous88,
Welcome to the community. When it comes to viral load, there is not much we can do. The virus does what it wants to do. However, when it comes to protecting our liver then all you have mentioned are great. I will add that he reduces stress and practices having a positive attitude and mindset about life. Having HBV can be consuming emotionally, mentally, and psychologically. Getting enough sleep is great as well. Moderate the consumption of red meat and fried /greasy foods. Drinking coffee without milk/cream and black tea is known to have liver health benefits.
@cholderby is correct. The virus can change its cause without any warning or symptoms. That is why it is important to remain under care even for those patients not under treatment. This will help your doctor catch some of these changes before they become a serious issue.
Do you know whether your husband has a family history of liver cancer? If he does, then treatment can be recommended even with a normal ALT and AST. Liver damage can still occur with normal AST, ALT, and imaging. A viral load of 8000 is a bit elevated and needs frequent monitoring.
I hope you find this helpful. Thanks, Bansah1
Thank you @cholderby, his e-antigen is negative.
Thank you @Bansah1, there’s no family history of liver cancer.
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Hello Bansah1
I hope you’re doing okay.
I am inquiring about the diet situation above, “drink coffee without milk”, does milk affect the liver in any way because i had stopped taking it for some years and for some reasons I developed ulcers and lost so much weight, i again started taking it,my weight is coming back so i am confused about the whole milk situation.
Hi,
My understanding is that taking it without milk is more effective in providing liver health. I drink decaf coffee and only a cup a day. I am not sure how much you consume a day. Some coffee can be too strong for some people especially Arabic, Ethiopian and Mediterranean versions.
The ulcers are probably due to you not eating. I will advise you drink it with a meal or after a meal. Sure feel free to add milk or cream if that helps. Best, Bansah1
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Oooooohhhhh thanks for the reply, I have seen the no milk around alot so i was worried if milk is not good in this situation but I get you. Yeah my doctor thinks the same thing about my ulcers, that I am not eating so I have had to force my self to eat.
Please, eat!!! You need the food for energy and nutrients for your health. Try snacks, smoothie, protein shakes or drinks if you are unable to eat on time.
Try and avoid drinking stuff high in acid on empty stomach.
I think you can take it with a small amount of milk if that helps. I am able to drink it black with no issues. Find what works best for you and give it a try. Best, Bansah1.
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