Jalandhar: Hepatitis is a health condition characterised by the inflammation of the liver. This condition is caused by several factors, including viral infection, excessive alcohol consumption, autoimmune disorders, toxins, etc. Some viral Hepatitis is caused by viruses including Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.
It can range from mild to severe, leading to some serious liver chronic disease, such as cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.
According to World Health Organisation (WHO), Hepatitis is among one of the major causes of death globally, with an estimation of around 1.3 million affected people died in 2022. The data has rapidly surged by 1.1 million people in 2019 to 1.3 million in 2022.
In a report published in April 2024, everyday, around 3500 people are dying of Hepatitis B and C infections worldwide. The Hepatitis stage B and C are potentially dangerous liver infections. And while both can lead to serious liver damage, they have different modes of transmission and treatment approaches. Hepatitis B can be prevented with vaccination, and antiviral medications can control the viral load.
Hepatitis C is also manage able with antiviral treatments. Both infections can progress to chronic conditions, potentially causing liver cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer if left untreated.
Symptoms of Hepatitis
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or weakness.
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bilirubin buildup.
- Abdominal Pain: Discomfort in the upper right abdomen.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick or loss of appetite.
- Fever: Mild to moderate fever, especially in acute cases.
- Dark Urine and Pale Stools: Changes in urine and stool color due to liver dysfunction.
- Joint Pain: Common in some forms, like Hepatitis B or C.
- Chronic cases may be asymptomatic initially, progressing silently to severe liver damage.
Causes of Hepatitis
- Viral Infections: Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E viruses, each with distinct transmission modes (e.g., Hepatitis A via contaminated food/water, Hepatitis B and C via blood or bodily fluids).
- Alcohol: Excessive consumption leading to alcoholic hepatitis.
- Toxins: Exposure to certain chemicals or drugs, including acetaminophen overdose.
- Autoimmune Disorders: The immune system attacking liver cells.
- Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease due to obesity or diabetes.
Prevention of Hepatitis
- Vaccination: Vaccines are available for Hepatitis A and B, highly effective in preventing infection.
- Safe Practices: Use condoms, avoid sharing needles, and ensure safe blood transfusions to prevent Hepatitis B and C.
- Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly and avoid contaminated food or water to prevent Hepatitis A and E.
- Screening and Early Treatment: Regular testing for high-risk groups (e.g., healthcare workers, IV drug users) and antiviral treatments for Hepatitis B and C to manage viral load and prevent progression.
- Limit Alcohol: Reducing alcohol intake to prevent alcoholic hepatitis.
- Safe Medical Practices: Ensure sterile equipment in healthcare settings to avoid transmission.
Hepatitis B and C can become chronic, leading to liver cirrhosis, failure, or cancer if untreated. Early detection and treatment with antivirals can manage these conditions effectively, while preventive measures significantly reduce infection risk.
