Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, a vital organ responsible for processing nutrients, filtering blood, and fighting infections. It can be caused by viruses, excessive alcohol consumption, toxins, certain medications, or autoimmune conditions. The disease can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting), and severity ranges from mild illness to serious liver damage.
Types of Viral Hepatitis
There are five main types of viral hepatitis:
- Hepatitis A (HAV) – Transmitted through contaminated food or water. It is usually short-term and preventable by vaccination.
- Hepatitis B (HBV) – Spread through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child during birth. It can become chronic and lead to liver cirrhosis or cancer.
- Hepatitis C (HCV) – Primarily transmitted through infected blood (e.g., shared needles). Often becomes chronic and may lead to severe liver damage.
- Hepatitis D (HDV) – Occurs only in those already infected with hepatitis B; it can worsen the severity of the illness.
- Hepatitis E (HEV) – Spread through contaminated water, especially in regions with poor sanitation. Usually self-limiting.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, nausea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and fever. Chronic hepatitis may remain asymptomatic for years until liver damage progresses.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention includes vaccination (for Hepatitis A and B), safe hygiene practices, safe sex, and avoiding sharing needles. Chronic hepatitis B and C can be managed or cured with antiviral medications. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and maintaining a healthy diet, support liver health.
Hepatitis is a serious yet preventable disease. Early detection, vaccination, awareness, and access to treatment are key to controlling its global impact.