You Know You’re Seeing the Right Doctor If:

• Your doctor is a gastroenterologist or hepatologist who has experience treating patients with AIH.
• Your doctor is following the guidelines published by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases that help doctors diagnose and treat patients with AIH.
• Your doctor listens to you and takes into consideration your health goals and desires for treatment.
• You’re able to communicate with your doctor’s office in between visits to answer any follow-up questions you may have or address new symptoms. As always, be sure to visit the ER if you have severe or potentially life-threatening symptoms.
• Your liver tests are normal, you are on long-term immunosuppressive medication (such as azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil) and you’re no longer on prednisone or budesonide. If your liver enzymes are not returning to normal, your doctor should be adjusting your medications. Eventually, the goal is for all patients to wean off of prednisone or budesonide if possible. If you’re unhappy with your care, consider seeking a second opinion.

If you need a recommendation for a doctor, check out the AIHA’s list of Preferred Doctors or send us an email at info@aihep.org.