Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver. Viral Hepatitis is the name given to viral diseases that cause inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis is silently affecting millions worldwide, many people with hepatitis do not have symptoms and do not know they are infected. While often silent and undetected for years, hepatitis can lead to serious health complications, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.
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The liver is a vital organ that processes nutrients, filters the blood, and fights infections. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, its function can be affected.
Aside from viruses, hepatitis can be caused by other infectious agents (bacteria, fungi, parasites), auto-immune disease, toxins, heavy alcohol abuse, and certain medications. Worth noting is that a virus often causes hepatitis.
With this blog post, Wellahealth Africa intends to raise awareness concerning types of viral hepatitis, its causes, prevention, and treatment.
Types and Causes of Viral Hepatitis
Hepatitis viruses; A, B, C, D, and E are the causative organisms for viral hepatitis. Each hepatitis virus has its own peculiarity, viral genome, classification, mode of transmission, and chronicity.
- Hepatitis A (HAV): Hepatitis A virus is a single-stranded RNA virus in the Picornavirus family. It is spread through contaminated food or water, usually causes a mild illness, and doesn’t lead to chronic infection. A safe and effective vaccine is available.
- Hepatitis B (HBV):Hepatitis B virus is a double-stranded DNA virus in the Hepadnavirus family. Hep B is spread through bodily fluids like blood or semen and can lead to chronic liver disease and cancer. Vaccination is crucial for prevention.
- Hepatitis C (HCV):Hepatitis C virus is a single-stranded RNA virus in the flavivirus family. Hepatitis C is spread through contact with infected blood, often through contaminated needles or unsafe medical practices. It is highly treatable with new medications, however, early detection is key.
- Hepatitis D (HDV):Hepatitis D virus is a negative single-stranded RNA virus of the Deltavirus family. It is only seen in individuals already infected with Hepatitis B, as it worsens the progression of B.
- Hepatitis E (HEV):Hepatitis E virus is a single-stranded RNA virus of the Hepevirus family. It is spread through contaminated water, and usually presents with mild illness but can be severe in pregnant women. Hepatitis E virus vaccine exists in some regions.
Features and Presentation of Viral Hepatitis
Viral hepatitis is usually asymptomatic; showing no symptoms. The hallmark of hepatitis is often the absence of symptoms in the early stages. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and potentially life-threatening complications. Raising awareness and encouraging testing is crucial to the management of hepatitis.
However, if symptoms of an acute infection appear anytime from 2 weeks to 6 months after exposure. The symptoms of acute hepatitis can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, light-colored stools, joint pain, and jaundice. Symptoms of chronic viral hepatitis can take decades to develop.
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stool
- Loss of appetite
- Joint pain
Preventive Strategies for Viral Hepatitis
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- Safe sex practices: Proper and consistent use of condoms to prevent the transmission of hepatitis B and C.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly, especially before eating or preparing food to avoid the spread of hepatitis A and E.
- Safe cosmetic and aesthetic practice: For tattoos and piercings, sterile pieces of equipment must be used to protect against the hepatitis viruses that spread through body fluids.
- Avoid sharing personal items:Avoid sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes to prevent the transmission of the hepatitis virus.
- Safe environmental practices to prevent hepatitis virus A & E, that spread through contaminated water and improperly cooked food.
- Vaccination: Vaccines are the ultimate preventive strategies against hepatitis viruses. Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B, offering effective prevention.
Furthermore, simple blood tests can detect hepatitis. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and improves long-term health outcomes.
Treatment of Viral Hepatitis
Treatment modalities for hepatitis vary depending on the type and severity. Treatment includes:
- antiviral medications,
- immune modulators, or
- liver transplantation in severe cases.
Overall, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve outcomes.
Conclusion
Viral Hepatitis is a serious but preventable and treatable condition. Understanding the causes/risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures, Wellahealth advises individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves and others from this disease.
Wellahealth Africa advises regular testing, va ccination, and healthy habits in combating hepatitis and promoting liver health.
For further consultation, affordable testing, and general health concerns contact Wellahealth on WhatsApp today!
Dr Ifeoma Uduh
