What is viral hepatitis? Know its symptoms, types and treatment options

World Hepatitis Day 2021: Hepatitis is a highly contagious liver infection

The liver is one of the most vital organs in our body and plays a major role in the digestion process. Any damage to the liver ultimately affects the whole functioning of the body. Hepatitis refers to a highly contagious liver infection that causes inflammation of the liver in which tissues respond to irritation or injury, usually resulting in swelling and pain. This happens due to a variety of infectious viruses and non-infectious agents resulting in a series of health problems, some of which can even be fatal. There are many causes of hepatitis in which viral hepatitis is a major cause. Viral hepatitis is caused by a virus and can be acute or chronic.

World Hepatitis Day 2021: all you need to know about hepatitis

Types of viral hepatitis

There are 5 viruses that can cause viral hepatitis. These include:

Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E– This type of hepatitis is common and is spread by ingestion of contaminated food or water. It does not cause any form of chronic infection and usually has no complications. Therefore, a person can usually recover from this virus within a few months. However, in rare cases, this virus can become fatal, leading to liver failure and may even require liver transplantation.

Hepatitis B- This type of hepatitis usually leads to chronic infection. However, you can carry the virus without feeling sick and spreading it. It is therefore recommended to be vaccinated to avoid it. It is spread through contaminated needles, contaminated blood transfusion, tattooing, unprotected sex, and sharing a toothbrush or razors.

Hepatitis C- It is one of the most common causes of liver disease and has no symptoms. It can further lead to chronic infections and no vaccine has yet been developed to prevent this virus. The mode of spread is similar to that of hepatitis B.

Hepatitis D- This type of hepatitis only affects people who are already infected with the hepatitis B virus. Therefore, vaccination against hepatitis B can also help prevent this type.

Read also : World Hepatitis Day 2021: Hepatitis B needs immediate attention, expert explains why

Traffic signs

• Dark-colored urine
• Stomach pain
• Jaundice
• Mild fever
• Loss of appetite
• Tired
• Feel sick
• Painful joints
• Pale or clayey stools

Hepatitis Day 2021: Stomach upset, fatigue and loss of appetite are warning signs of hepatitis
Photo credit: iStock

Treatment

Although there is no cure for hepatitis A or hepatitis E, they are usually self-emitting. Hepatitis B and hepatitis C can be cured with medication. In addition to maintaining hygiene and disinfection, a doctor should be consulted if he presents symptoms of viral hepatitis for better management. Ignoring the symptoms can make the situation worse.

Read also : World Hepatitis Day: Follow These Prevention Steps To Protect Your Liver

Implications of viral hepatitis

• Liver cancer
• Destruction of liver tissue
• Weaken the immune system
• Hepatic insufficiency
• Death in some acute cases

Prevention

• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and hepatitis B
• Use protection during sex
• Avoid sharing needles
• Maintain good hygiene
• Wash your hands regularly with soap
• Avoid using the objects of an infected person
• Take precautions when getting inked or drilled
• Avoid sharing water or liquids

Wash your hands regularly to prevent the spread of viral hepatitis
Photo credit: iStock

Read also : World Hepatitis Day: Understanding Hepatitis A, B and C

Correlation with COVID-19

Although the cure rate of the virus gradually increases, Covid-19 creates new variants that spread quickly. It has been shown based on a recent CDC study that Covid can also cause viral hepatitis while inducing a deregulated innate immune response. Therefore, it is very important to take preventive measures to avoid the risk of viral hepatitis. Even while working in hospitals, nursing homes, dormitories, daycares, or clinics, there are preventative measures that can reduce the risk of this contagious disease.

(Dr Neeraj Saraf is Director of Gastroenterology Hepatology, Institute of Digestive and Hepatobiliary Sciences in Medanta)

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