Throughout life, we may encounter some health issues. Some are caused by deficiencies in our bodies, some are viral, and others come from excesses in life, as is the case with hepatitis.

What is Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a type of inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by different factors. The most common infections are viral hepatitis, types A, B, and C, and those caused by excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages and by medications. If we take a closer look at this disease, we will find numerous variations both in cause, how it is transmitted, and how it manifests in an infected person. Viral hepatitis is considered the largest global epidemic of recent times. It is truly an aggressive disease that needs to be taken seriously.

Symptoms of Viral Hepatitis

The main symptoms of viral hepatitis generally appear a few days after contact with the virus. It is very characteristic for this disease to cause the skin and eyes to take on a yellowish hue, along with other consequences ranging from mild to chronic and it can be fatal. Treatment for Hepatitis is still limited and depends a lot on its variations. For the A, B, and C types, which are most common here in Brazil, the most effective treatment is the use of medications specific for treating the liver and symptom relief. See below for more detailed information about the disease and its variations, as well as learning how to protect yourself and which treatments are most recommended.

Types of Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be viral or caused by alcohol consumption or even the use of certain medications. The viral form occurs when the virus comes into contact with the liver cells, causing inflammation; in the case of alcohol, frequent consumption destroys liver cells. Viral hepatitis can be A, B, C, D, or E, with Hepatitis A, B and C being the most common, especially here in Brazil.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is transmitted by consuming contaminated food and water and can also be transmitted from person to person. It is very common in developing countries, especially those with very poor sanitation. Washing fruits and vegetables well, maintaining good hygiene and sanitation, as well as always washing hands before meals can help prevent contamination.

Hepatitis B and C

Hepatitis B and C viruses are mainly transmitted through blood. This type of hepatitis is often contracted through needles used for injectable drugs and especially through non-sterilized surgical equipment. Additionally, the hepatitis B virus can be transmitted through sexual intercourse. Prevention is always the best way to avoid this and many other diseases. Other types of viruses that also cause hepatitis are less common, but basically have the same forms of transmission and symptoms. Essentially, the worldwide causes of hepatitis are:

  • Infection by virus A, B, C, D, E, or G (bacteria that cause hepatitis)
  • Ingestion of poisonous mushrooms
  • Excessive consumption (alcoholism) of alcoholic beverages
  • Use of medications harmful to the liver
  • Consequence of other chronic diseases

Other means of transmission of hepatitis, which were more common decades ago, were blood transfusions and from mother to child during natural childbirth when prenatal care was inadequate.

Symptoms of Hepatitis

The causes of hepatitis are quite diverse and involve infection by viruses, bacteria, and cirrhosis caused by alcoholism. Each one has particular ways of being transmitted, as well as causes and treatments, but some symptoms are generally recognized whenever there is liver inflammation:

  • Swelling and abdominal pain
  • Headache
  • Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
  • General malaise
  • Dark urine
  • Pale stools
  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Weight loss

Symptoms of Hepatitis B

In the case of hepatitis B, the disease progresses slowly and the patient may not show symptoms or only a few.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatitis

Hepatitis can be diagnosed just by observing the patient in relation to the appearance of some of these symptoms and is confirmed clinically through a blood test to identify the presence of the hepatitis virus in the body and also through an abdominal ultrasound. In most cases, treatment for hepatitis is symptomatic. Rest, a light and healthy diet and good hydration help fight the virus and restore liver health. When necessary, there are effective medications that may be prescribed.

Medications

There are some medications that may be recommended, but only a doctor can indicate them, determining the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment.

Duration of Treatment

Treatment against hepatitis lasts on average from 6 to 11 months, depending on the type of hepatitis and mainly on how each patient’s body responds. For cases of acute hepatitis, there is no specific treatment, just managing the symptoms and ensuring well-being with rest and a proper diet.

Proper Diet

In fact, diet for hepatitis patients is very important; it should be rich in carbohydrates and low in fat to make digestion easier. It is always good for the patient to participate in choosing their foods. There are no specific food restrictions, except for alcohol, which is naturally forbidden. What really matters to ensure good health and protect against many types of hepatitis and other diseases is prevention. Always protect yourself! Do not forget to get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B and always use condoms during sex! Oh! Be careful with tattoos, piercings, and even manicure tools; make sure everything is sterilized. See also: What is Cystic Fibrosis? Photo: LeonardoG