Viral Hepatitis
Several viruses are known to cause hepatitis, which refers to inflammation of the liver. You may lower the risk of getting hepatitis by avoiding risky behaviors, such as sharing needles, having unprotected sex and drinking large amounts of alcohol.
About Hepatitis
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. The liver is one of the most important organs in the body, and when it is infected, it can affect digestion, energy, and overall health. Hepatitis may be caused by viruses, alcohol use, or other conditions.
Viral hepatitis is the most common type and can be either:
- Acute – lasts less than six months.
- Chronic – lasts longer than six months and may lead to liver damage.
Types of Viral Hepatitis
- Hepatitis A – Spread through contaminated food and water. Most people recover fully within a few months. A safe and effective vaccine is available.
- Hepatitis B – Spread through blood, body fluids, sexual contact, and from mother to child at birth. It can become chronic and cause serious liver problems. Vaccine available.
- Hepatitis C – Spread mainly through infected blood (needle sharing, unsafe transfusions before 1992). Often silent for years. No vaccine yet, but effective treatments are available.
- Hepatitis D – Occurs only in people who already have Hepatitis B. Preventing Hepatitis B protects against Hepatitis D.
- Hepatitis E – Spread through contaminated food or water. Usually short-term, but can be dangerous in pregnant women.
Symptoms of Hepatitis
Hepatitis may not always cause symptoms, but when it does, the most common are:
- Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine, pale stools
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach pain
If you notice these signs, consult a doctor immediately.
How Hepatitis Spreads
- Contaminated food or water (A & E)
- Unsafe blood contact or injections (B & C)
- Sexual contact with an infected person (B, rarely C)
- Mother to child during childbirth (B, D)
Treatment Options
- Hepatitis A & E: No specific treatment, supportive care only.
- Hepatitis B: Antiviral medicines can control chronic infection.
- Hepatitis C: Modern antiviral tablets can cure most cases.
- Hepatitis D & E: Managed with specific therapies and supportive care.
Prevention & Protection
You can reduce your risk of hepatitis by:
- Taking vaccines for Hepatitis A and B.
- Practicing safe sex and using condoms.
- Avoiding needle sharing.
- Drinking clean water and eating hygienic food.
- Ensuring safe medical injections, tattoos, and piercings.
- Washing hands properly before meals.
Outlook
Most people recover from hepatitis, but some types can cause serious complications such as liver failure, cirrhosis, or liver cancer if untreated. Early detection, vaccination, and healthy lifestyle choices make a big difference.