Viral hepatitis is a major public health threat with an estimated 296 million people living with chronic hepatitis B and 58 million people living with chronic hepatitis C worldwide. The annual World Hepatitis Day is celebrated on July 28, the day of Dr. Baruch Blumberg's birth (1925-2011). Dr. Blumberg discovered the hepatitis B virus in 1967 and created the first hepatitis B vaccination two years later.
What is Hepatitis? Hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver, generally occurs through viral infection but can also be caused by other factors. Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E are among the five viruses that make up the hepatitis family; however, these three are the most widespread globally.
Types Of Hepatitis :
Hepatitis A is caused by the hepatitis A virus, which is transmitted via feces. Those who develop symptoms of hepatitis usually eat or drink contaminated food or beverages. The infection normally disappears within a few months but it can sometimes turn severe.
Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus, which is spread from the bodily fluids of an infected person. Commonly this occurs from mother to baby during pregnancy or from child-to-child contact. the Hepatitis B virus generally causes a mild infection in adults, and most people recover within a few months.
Hepatitis C infection is the result of a situation where needles have been shared or blood-to-blood contact has occurred. This typically occurs as a result of drug use, unsafe medical injections, and poor healthcare procedures. Most persons with hepatitis C have no symptoms, and about 25% of those infected will be able to recover.
Hepatitis D is a rare type of hepatitis that only develops when a hepatitis B infection is present. Like other strains, the hepatitis D virus results in liver inflammation.
Hepatitis E is a waterborne disease that results from exposure to the hepatitis E virus (HEV). Hepatitis E is mainly found in areas with poor sanitation.
Symptoms Of Hepatatis :
Common symptoms of infectious hepatitis include:
Fatigue
Sudden nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain or discomfort, especially on the upper right side beneath your lower ribs (by your liver)
Clay-colored bowel movements
Loss of appetite
Low-grade fever
Dark urine
Joint pain
Yellowing of the skin and the whites of your eyes (jaundice)
Diagonsis Of Hepatatis :
To properly treat hepatitis, it is essential to know the progression of the disease, So following a series of Tests will help you to accurately know your condition.
History and Physical examination
Liver Function Test
Other Blood Tests
Liver Biopsy
Tips To Prevent Hepatitis :
Some vaccines can help protect against many hepatitis viruses.
Reducing exposure to substances containing these viruses can also be an important preventive measure.
Practicing effective hygiene is one way to avoid contracting hepatitis.
replenishing nutrition and fluids.
avoiding alcohol.
rest, with time off work.
Take Keyway: Hepatitis is an acute infection that can affect the liver. It can last for several weeks or months. The risk of getting it has reduced dramatically since the introduction of vaccinations.