Guide To The Common Types Of Hepatitis

The liver is an organ in the upper right abdomen. It performs many functions, all of which impact metabolism. The liver is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It also produces bile, which is required for digestion, and filters toxins from the body. Hepatitis refers to a group of conditions that cause liver inflammation. Viruses are the most common cause. However, medications, toxins, alcohol, and even an autoimmune disorder can all result in certain forms of hepatitis.

Hepatitis treatment depends on what type a patient is suffering from. It is possible to prevent some hepatitis infections with a vaccine, especially before travel. Research is being conducted to find a cure for hepatitis. However, many types of hepatitis will require a liver transplant to effectively treat the patient’s condition.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is infectious and can result in acute liver failure or death. Patients will deal with jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin or eyes. Other symptoms include diarrhea, discomfort in the abdomen, fever, fatigue, and appetite loss. Adults often see their first symptoms within 2 to 6 weeks after exposure. Children do not usually show symptoms. Transmission methods include close contact with an infected person, poor hygiene, and improperly cooked shellfish. Overcrowded regions and those with poor sanitation report higher rates of hepatitis A infections.

There is an approved vaccine for hepatitis A. It is administered in 2 injections between 6 to 12 months apart. If patients get infected, there is no specific treatment. Patients are instead told to drink fluids, follow a healthy diet, and get adequate rest. They will also need to wash their hands often and pay more attention to personal hygiene. Cooking food properly is also vital. Severe cases, however, require a liver transplant.

Get the full details on hepatitis B next.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is transmitted through infected bodily fluids, such as blood and semen. This infection causes the liver to swell, and serious cases may even result in cancer. Warning signs include jaundice, nausea, vomiting, joint pain, fever, and fatigue. They should also watch out for dark urine and clay-colored stool. Symptoms of this condition last from a few weeks to half a year. They will normally first appear up to 90 days after exposure. Patients can receive a vaccine before and after exposure. Other treatments include antiviral medications and, eventually, a liver transplant.

Uncover information on the most well-known type of hepatitis next.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is perhaps the most well-known type of hepatitis. This type is the result of the hepatitis C virus. Many patients are only infected with an acute form. However, hepatitis C can become chronic. Chronic hepatitis C will cause cirrhosis of the liver. It may even result in liver failure. Liver failure requires a liver transplant to be cured.

Unfortunately, hepatitis C is hard to detect. This is because symptoms often do not appear until later stages. When extensive liver damage has occurred, symptoms include a loss of appetite, chronic fatigue, muscle pain, and dark urine. Patients will often deal with jaundice, easy bruising, as well as swelling in the legs.

Continue reading to get the facts on hepatitis E next.

Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E infections occur when individuals consume contaminated food and water. This is common in regions with poor sanitation, including Africa, Central America, and Southeast Asia. Infections are also common after natural disasters and heavy rainfall. Symptoms usually appear within a few weeks of being exposed to the virus. They include jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, appetite loss, nausea, and vomiting. Patients will also deal with an enlarged liver. If they do not receive prompt treatment, they may experience acute liver failure.

There is no vaccine, but medications can help treat this infection. Other treatment options include rest, fluids, and practicing good hygiene. Infected individuals must also avoid alcohol, as this can further damage their liver.

Discover the autoimmune form of hepatitis next.

Autoimmune Hepatitis

Autoimmune hepatitis occurs when a patient’s immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells. Unfortunately, it is not clear exactly what causes autoimmune hepatitis. However, experts believe that genetics and the environment may influence the risk of developing this condition.

Similar to other types of hepatitis, jaundice is a common symptom. Patients will also experience fatigue, rashes on the skin, an enlarged liver, joint pain, and spider angiomas. When caught early, medications that suppress the immune system can treat it. These medications prevent the immune system from attacking the liver. However, if autoimmune hepatitis progresses or medication is ineffective, patients will need a liver transplant.