Hepatitis: Types, Symptoms, Causes, and More

What is hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a potentially fatal disease characterized by the inflammation of the liver. The liver is vital for blood filtration, drug metabolism, and bile production. When inflamed, the liver’s ability to perform these functions is impaired, leading to potential health complications.

Hepatitis is classified into viral (caused by viruses A, B, C, D & E) and non-viral types (resulting from autoimmune disorders, excessive alcohol consumption, or exposure to toxins or medications).

Viral hepatitis is highly contagious, transmitted through contaminated food/water (A and E), blood/body fluids (B, C, and D), or from mother to child during pregnancy/childbirth (B and C). Non-viral hepatitis is non-contagious and often linked to underlying medical conditions or lifestyle factors.

Causes of Hepatitis

Viral Hepatitis Causes:

• Hepatitis A Virus (HAV): Contaminated food/water
• Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): Infected blood, semen, or body fluids
• Hepatitis C Virus (HCV): Primarily infected blood, often through shared needles
• Hepatitis D Virus (HDV): Requires HBV presence
• Hepatitis E Virus (HEV): Contaminated food/water, similar to HAV

Non-viral Causes:

• Autoimmune Hepatitis: The immune system attacks liver cells
• Alcoholic Liver Disease: Excessive, prolonged alcohol consumption
• Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Fat accumulation in the liver
• Medications and Toxins: Certain drugs, supplements, and environmental toxins
• Metabolic Disorders: Wilson’s disease, hemochromatosis, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency

Symptoms of Hepatitis

Common hepatitis symptoms include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Dark-coloured urine
• Light-coloured stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes)
• Fever and chills
• Joint pain
• Rash or itchy skin

Some types, like hepatitis B and C, can progress to chronic liver disease without early symptoms, highlighting the necessity of regular check-ups for at-risk individuals, says Dr. Umesh Jalihal.

How Hepatitis is Diagnosed

Diagnosis typically involves:

Medical History:

• Evaluate risk factors and potential exposure sources

Physical Examination:

• Check for jaundice, abdominal tenderness, or liver/spleen enlargement

Blood Tests:

• Liver Function Tests: Measure liver enzyme and protein levels
• Serological Viral Hepatitis Tests: Detect specific antibodies or viral antigens

Imaging Tests:

• Ultrasound: Assess liver size, structure, and abnormalities
• CT Scan or MRI: Evaluate liver damage extent and rule out other causes

Liver Biopsy:

• Analyse liver tissue samples for inflammation, scarring, or other changes

How is Hepatitis Treated?

Hepatitis treatment may vary with the type, severity, and underlying complications:

Antiviral Medications:

• For viral hepatitis B and C (e.g., tenofovir, entecavir, sofosbuvir, ledipasvir)

Supportive Care:

• Rest, hydration, and balanced diet for acute viral hepatitis
• Hospitalisation for severe cases

Liver Transplantation:

• For end-stage liver disease or liver failure

Immunosuppressive Medications:

• For autoimmune hepatitis (e.g., corticosteroids, immunomodulators)

Lifestyle Modifications:

• For non-viral hepatitis (alcohol abstinence, healthy diet, regular exercise)

Vaccinations:

• Available for hepatitis A and B

Tips to Prevent Hepatitis

Vaccination:

• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B if at risk or not previously immunised

Practice Safe Hygiene:

• Wash hands thoroughly
• Avoid untreated water or contaminated food

Avoid Sharing Personal Items:

• Don’t share items that may come into contact with blood/bodily fluids
• Use sterile needles for injections/piercings

Practice Safe Sex:

• Use barrier protection
• Limit sexual partners and avoid high-risk behaviours

Avoid Alcohol and Drugs:

• Limit alcohol consumption
• Avoid intravenous drug use or needle sharing

Handle Blood Products Safely:

• Follow strict safety protocols for doctors

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:

• Adopt a balanced diet
• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight

Conclusion

Hepatitis is a serious condition with significant health impacts. Understanding its types, causes, symptoms, and hepatitis prevention measures allows individuals to take proactive measures to reduce risk and maintain liver health. Early diagnosis & appropriate treatment are crucial for effective management and hepatitis prevention complications. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and safe hygiene practices can protect against hepatitis.

Remember, hepatitis is preventable and treatable. Individuals can reduce their likelihood of developing this condition by making informed choices and taking necessary precautions.

If experiencing symptoms or concerns about liver health, consult a qualified doctor. At SPARSH Gastroenterology Hospital in Bangalore, our experienced gastroenterologists and hepatologists provide comprehensive care and personalised treatment plans for hepatitis and other liver-related conditions.

FAQs

What is the leading cause of hepatitis?

Hepatitis is caused by viral (hepatitis A, B, C, D, E viruses) and non-viral factors (autoimmune disorders, alcohol consumption, medications, toxins, metabolic disorders).

How is hepatitis transmitted?

• Hepatitis A and E: Contaminated food/water
• Hepatitis B: Infected blood, semen, or body fluids
• Hepatitis C: Primarily infected blood, often through shared needles
• Hepatitis D: Requires hepatitis B virus presence

Is hepatitis A a curable disease?

Hepatitis A is generally self-limiting and curable, with most people recovering fully within weeks or months without specific treatment.

Can hepatitis B be cured completely?

Hepatitis B cannot be cured completely but can be effectively managed with antiviral medications and lifestyle modifications.

How long can a person live with hep C?

Life expectancy varies based on disease stage, other health conditions, and treatment effectiveness. With proper management, many can live an average lifespan.

How do you get hepatitis D and E?

• Hepatitis D: Requires hepatitis B virus presence, transmitted through infected blood/bodily fluids.
• Hepatitis E: Contaminated food/water, similar to hepatitis A