19/09/2025
What is Hepatitis?
It is an inflammation of the liver caused by viruses, toxins, or other factors.
Types of Hepatitis:
1. **Hepatitis A (HAV):**
* Spread through contaminated food/water or close contact
* Mild illness, rarely fatal
2. **Hepatitis B (HBV):**
* Spread through bodily fluids, mother to child, or contaminated needles
* Can be acute or chronic, potentially fatal
3. **Hepatitis C (HCV):**
* Spread through bodily fluids, contaminated needles, or unsanitary tattoos
* Usually chronic, potentially fatal
4. **Hepatitis D (HDV):**
* Only infects people with HBV
* Spread through bodily fluids or contaminated needles
5. **Hepatitis E (HEV):**
* Spread through contaminated food/water or undercooked pork/meal
Symptoms:
1. **Yellowing skin/eyes (jaundice)**
2. **Fatigue**
3. **Loss of appetite**
4. **Nausea/vomiting**
5. **Abdominal pain**
6. **Dark urine/pale stools**
Complications:
1. **Liver cirrhosis**
2. **Liver cancer**
3. **Liver failure**
Diagnosis:
1. **Blood tests** (liver function, viral antibodies)
2. **Imaging tests** (ultrasound, CT/MRI scans)
3. **Liver biopsy** (tissue sample examination)
Treatment:
1. **Vaccination** (HBV, HAV)
2. **Antiviral medications** (HBV, HCV, HDV)
3. **Interferon injections** (HCV)
4. **Liver transplant** (advanced liver disease)
Prevention:
1. **Get vaccinated** (HBV, HAV)
2. **Practice safe s*x**
3. **Avoid sharing needles**
4. **Wear gloves when handling blood/bodily fluids**
5. **Ensure proper food handling/cooking**