What is hepatitis?
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by viruses, bacteria, or other harmful substances. It can be an acute or chronic disease, and in some cases can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
Types of hepatitis
The five main types of hepatitis are:
- Hepatitis A: Caused by a virus that is transmitted through contaminated water or food.
- Hepatitis B: Caused by a virus that is transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.
- Hepatitis C: Caused by a virus that is transmitted through contact with infected blood.
- Hepatitis D: Caused by a virus that can only infect people who are already infected with hepatitis B.
- Hepatitis E: Caused by a virus that is transmitted through contaminated water or food.
Symptoms of hepatitis
The symptoms of hepatitis can vary depending on the type of virus, but often include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stools
Prevention of hepatitis
There are several ways to prevent hepatitis, depending on the type of virus:
- Hepatitis A: Wash your hands frequently, drink bottled or boiled water, avoid eating raw or unwashed foods in high-risk areas, and practice safe sex.
- Hepatitis B: Get vaccinated against hepatitis B, practice safe sex, do not share needles or other sharp objects, and avoid contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected individuals.
- Hepatitis C: Do not share needles or other sharp objects, practice safe sex, and get tested for hepatitis C if you are at risk.
- Hepatitis D: Get vaccinated against hepatitis B and avoid contact with the blood or bodily fluids of people infected with hepatitis B or D.
- Hepatitis E: Drink bottled or boiled water, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them, cook meat and seafood thoroughly, and practice safe sex.
Treatment of hepatitis
The treatment of hepatitis depends on the type of virus and the severity of the infection. Some types of hepatitis, such as hepatitis A, do not require treatment and resolve on their own. Other types, such as hepatitis B and C, can be treated with antiviral medications. In some cases, hepatitis may require a liver transplant.
Access to liver health services
If you think you may be at risk for hepatitis or if you have symptoms of the disease, it’s important to see a doctor. At Centro Ararat, we offer treatment for hepatitis C and the hepatitis B vaccine. In addition, many health insurance plans cover treatment and screening for hepatitis. Talk to your doctor to find out what options are available in your area.
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