Anh Tuan experienced fatigue, mild discomfort in the right hypochondrium, loss of appetite, and indigestion. Tests at Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM revealed his liver enzyme levels were 20 times higher than normal.

Doctor Hoang Dinh Thanh, from the Department of Gastroenterology, Endoscopy and Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgery Center, diagnosed the patient with alcohol-related acute hepatitis and degree two fatty liver.

Doctor Thanh explained that when alcohol is consumed, most ethanol is metabolized in the liver. This process produces acetaldehyde, a substance toxic to liver cells. Acetaldehyde overactivates kupffer cells (macrophages residing in the liver), releasing inflammatory mediators and increasing oxidative stress. This prolonged condition damages or necroses liver cells, causing liver enzymes to rise.

Anh Tuan suffered from degree two fatty liver, consistently stayed up late, and consumed alcohol. The doctor believes these factors increased pressure and overloaded his liver, accelerating the development of acute hepatitis.

Doctor Thanh advises Anh Tuan on his condition. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The patient needs to stop consuming alcohol, adjust his daily routine, get enough sleep, and maintain a reasonable diet. The doctor prescribed medication to reduce liver damage and improve liver function, also advising the patient to lose weight.

Acute hepatitis is a condition where liver cells experience sudden inflammation and damage, developing within under six months. Fatty liver occurs when excessive fat (lipid) accumulates in liver cells, exceeding 5-10% of the liver's weight. If not well controlled, it carries a risk of hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

Master Doctor Doan Vinh Binh, from the Medical Information Center at Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, advises everyone to maintain a scientific diet, limit alcohol, control weight, exercise appropriately, and get hepatitis vaccines for prevention. Individuals experiencing abnormal signs such as right hypochondrium pain, jaundice, yellow eyes, dark urine, or prolonged fatigue should seek early medical attention.

During the World Cup season, fans should arrange a reasonable viewing schedule, avoid continuous late nights, and get enough sleep to protect their health. Some natural extracts like S. Marianum and Wasabia can be used for supportive purposes, helping to enhance detoxification and contribute to liver protection against harmful agents, as advised by a doctor.

Thai Thanh

*The patient's name has been changed