What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver, commonly caused by viral infections but also by other factors like alcohol, toxins, medications, or autoimmune diseases.

Types of Hepatitis

1. Viral Hepatitis (most common types)

   • Hepatitis A (HAV): Usually spread through contaminated food or water (fecal-oral route).

   • Hepatitis B (HBV): Spread via blood, sexual contact, or from mother to baby at birth.

   • Hepatitis C (HCV): Mainly transmitted through blood (e.g., sharing needles).

   • Hepatitis D (HDV): Occurs only in people infected with HBV.

   • Hepatitis E (HEV): Spread like Hepatitis A, through contaminated water.

2. Non-viral Hepatitis

   • Alcoholic Hepatitis: Due to excessive alcohol consumption.

   • Autoimmune Hepatitis: The body’s immune system attacks liver cells.

   • Drug-induced Hepatitis: Caused by reactions to medications or toxins.

Symptoms of Hepatitis

• Fatigue

• Loss of appetite

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain (especially near the liver)

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

• Dark urine

• Pale stool

• Fever

• Joint pain

(Some types like Hepatitis B and C can be asymptomatic for years.)

Diagnosis

• Blood tests (to check liver function and identify viral hepatitis antibodies or antigens)

• Imaging (ultrasound)

• Liver biopsy (in some cases)

Treatment

For Viral Hepatitis

• Hepatitis A & E: Usually resolve on their own; supportive care (rest, hydration, nutrition).

• Hepatitis B: Antiviral medications (e.g., Tenofovir, Entecavir) if chronic.

• Hepatitis C: Direct-acting antiviral drugs can cure most cases.

• Hepatitis D: No specific cure; management of Hepatitis B is key.

For Non-viral Hepatitis

• Alcoholic Hepatitis: Abstain from alcohol; supportive care.

• Autoimmune Hepatitis: Immunosuppressive drugs like corticosteroids.

• Drug-induced Hepatitis: Stop the offending medication.

Prevention

• Vaccination available for Hepatitis A and B.

• Practice safe sex.

• Avoid sharing needles.

• Ensure safe food and water.

• Proper hygiene and sanitation.

• Screen blood products.

Prognosis

• Many acute hepatitis infections resolve completely.

• Chronic infections (especially HBV and HCV) can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer if untreated.