Viral Hepatitis
OVERVIEW
Hepatitis A:
Hepatitis A is a viral liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). This virus spreads through contaminated food, drinks or by close personal contact with someone who has the infection. The hepatitis A virus attacks the liver and causes inflammation, which can lead to various symptoms, such as fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, and loss of appetite.
Hepatitis A is typically a mild illness that can be treated by resting and allowing the body to fight off the virus. In severe cases, it can lead to hospitalization and even death.
The good news is that a vaccine is available to prevent hepatitis A, and the best way to avoid the disease is through good hygiene practices, such as washing hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers or preparing food. People who are at a higher risk of contracting the virus, such as travelers to countries where the disease is prevalent, should consider getting vaccinated.
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have contracted the virus, as early treatment can prevent further complications. Additionally, if you have been in close contact with someone who has the disease, you should also be tested and possibly vaccinated to avoid getting infected.
Hepatitis B:
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and spreads through contact with infected bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk.
The virus infects liver cells, causing inflammation and damage to the liver. This can lead to a number of health problems, including jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fatigue, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, hepatitis B can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer.
The good news is that hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination. There is also effective treatment for those who are infected with the virus. Antiviral medications can help suppress the virus and slow the progression of liver damage. It is important for individuals who are at high risk of exposure to the virus to be vaccinated and for those who are infected to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Overall, hepatitis B is a serious and potentially life-threatening virus, but with proper care and management, individuals with hepatitis B can lead healthy and productive lives.
Hepatitis C:
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and is spread through contaminated blood. This can happen when someone is injected with a needle that has been used by someone with HCV, or through sexual contact with an infected person.
The virus attacks the liver, causing inflammation and damaging its cells. Over time, this damage can lead to serious liver problems, such as cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) or liver cancer. Symptoms of hepatitis C include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, and dark urine.
Many people with hepatitis C do not have symptoms and do not know they are infected. This is why it is important to get tested if you think you may have been exposed to HCV.
Treatment for hepatitis C typically involves taking antiviral medications for several months. These drugs can cure the infection in most cases. However, some people with HCV may develop a chronic (long-term) infection that requires ongoing medical management.
It is important to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of HCV, such as avoiding sharing needles and practicing safe sex. People with hepatitis C should also get regular check-ups with their doctor to monitor their liver function and any potential complications.
WHAT CAN I DO AT HOME TO PREVENT MORE LIVER INJURY?
WHAT TREATMENTS SHOULD I DISCUSS WITH MY DOCTOR?
At each clinic visit you should consider discussing the following items with your healthcare provider:
Your alcohol intake and strategies to quit or minimize alcohol use to prevent additional liver damage.
Your weight and strategies to achieve and maintain a healthy weight to prevent additional liver damage.
Vaccinations. In general, individuals with liver disease should receive vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, TDAP, yearly influenza vaccination, and be up to date with COVID vaccinations. Individuals with cirrhosis should also receive pneumonia vaccinations. A complete list of recommended vaccinations can be obtained from the CDC website on Vaccinations for those with liver disease. Any of these infections can cause your liver to become much sicker if you are not appropriately protected from vaccination.
If you have cirrhosis. If so, you will need to discuss things like regular endoscopies (to screen for varices), regular labs and imaging (to monitor liver function and screen for cancer), and management of liver complications. If you have cirrhosis, please also visit the patient information page on cirrhosis.
WHAT RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE TO HELP ME?