July 28 is World Hepatitis Day, when community organizations, doctors, researchers and governments raise awareness about the global impact of viral hepatitis. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this year's theme is “It’s Time for Action”. With one person dying every 30 seconds from a hepatitis-related condition, we must urgently strengthen prevention, diagnosis and treatment to save lives and improve health outcomes. For medical support and 24x7 emergency care connect with Neotia Getwel Multispecialty Hospital.

What is viral hepatitis?

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. Inflammation is the body's reaction to irritation or damage, which causes swelling and discomfort. There are several causes of hepatitis. Viral hepatitis is caused by a virus and can be acute or chronic. Viral hepatitis is contagious. Certain kinds of viral hepatitis can be transmitted through sexual intercourse. Several viruses that cause hepatitis include hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A and E viruses often cause acute illnesses. The hepatitis B, C and D viruses can cause both acute and chronic illnesses.

Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is an acute illness that usually resolves on its own within a few weeks. The hepatitis A virus is transmitted by contact with an infected person's faeces. You can protect yourself by receiving the hepatitis A vaccination.

Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B can induce both acute and chronic infection. If you are pregnant or have a high risk of infection, your doctor may urge that you get screened for hepatitis B. You can protect yourself against hepatitis B by obtaining the vaccination.

Hepatitis C: Hepatitis C can induce both acute and chronic infection. Doctors normally suggest a one-time hepatitis C screening for everyone whose age ranges from 18 to 79. Early detection and treatment can help avoid liver damage.

Hepatitis D: The peculiar thing about the hepatitis D virus is that it can only infect you if you already have an active case of the hepatitis B virus. A coinfection happens when you get both hepatitis D and hepatitis B at the same time. A superinfection happens when you have chronic hepatitis B and subsequently become infected with hepatitis D.

Hepatitis E: Hepatitis E is an acute illness that resolves without therapy within a few weeks. Some kinds of hepatitis E virus are spread by drinking water contaminated with an infected person's faeces. Other forms are spread by consuming raw pig or wild wildlife.

How is hepatitis transmitted?

The transmission modes differ for various hepatitis strains. Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food or water and close contact with infected individuals. Hepatitis B and D require contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, while Hepatitis C primarily spreads through blood contact. Hepatitis E is transmitted through contaminated water and unlike Hepatitis B and D, Hepatitis C does not spread through casual contact or sexual activity without blood exposure.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis?

1. Dark Urine: If your urine is darker than usual or has a brownish tint, it could be a sign of hepatitis.

2. Stomach Pain: Pain in the abdominal area can be a symptom of hepatitis, especially in the upper right side.

3. Yellow Skin or Eye Whites (Jaundice): If your skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow, it's a clear indication of hepatitis.

4. Pale or Clay-Coloured Stool: If your stool is lighter than usual or has a clay-like colour, it could be a sign of hepatitis.

5. Low-Grade Fever: A persistent low-grade fever can be a symptom of hepatitis.

6. Loss of Appetite: If you're experiencing a sudden loss of appetite or feeling nauseous, it could be related to hepatitis.

7. Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired or weak could be a sign of hepatitis.

8. Feeling Sick to Your Stomach: Nausea or vomiting can also be a symptom of hepatitis.

9. Aching Joints: Pain or stiffness in your joints could be related to hepatitis.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms or a combination of them, don't hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in managing hepatitis and preventing long-term liver damage.

How can hepatitis be prevented?

While maintaining good hygiene and avoiding contact with contaminated objects and bodily fluids is crucial for preventing all hepatitis strains, the specific transmission modes differ.

To prevent Hepatitis A be cautious and avoid drinking unpurified water and don’t consume unpeeled fruits and vegetables. It is also important to practise diligent handwashing.

Hepatitis B requires contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, including semen. Safe sex practices and avoiding sharing personal items like razors, toothbrushes and needles are essential. Additionally, ensure proper sterilization during tattooing and piercing procedures.

Hepatitis C transmission primarily occurs through blood contact, emphasizing the importance of never sharing needles and avoiding contact with contaminated objects. Safe sex practices and good hygiene remain significant for overall prevention.

Hepatitis D, solely affecting individuals already carrying Hepatitis B, spreads through similar routes like blood, semen and saliva. Safe sex practices and avoiding shared personal items remain vital for prevention.

Finally, Hepatitis E transmission occurs through contaminated water and food. Individuals should strictly adhere to bottled water consumption, avoid tap water for all purposes and ensure thorough cooking of meats like pork, wild boar and deer to minimize risk.

What is the treatment for hepatitis?

The treatments for hepatitis depend on the type and severity of the disease and may include antiviral medications, interferon injections and liver transplants. For hepatitis A, supportive care and hospitalization may be necessary. Hepatitis B treatment includes antiviral medications and interferon injections, while hepatitis C treatment involves antiviral medications and direct-acting antivirals. Hepatitis D treatment typically involves interferon injections and antiviral medications. Hepatitis E treatment usually consists of supportive care and hospitalization. Common treatments across types include liver function tests, blood tests, ultrasound or liver biopsy, vaccination against hepatitis A and B and lifestyle changes. New and emerging treatments, such as gene therapies and stem cell therapies, are also being explored. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.

Why is hepatitis awareness important?

Viral hepatitis, a major public health concern, affects over 300 million people globally, resulting in more than 1 million deaths annually. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, prevention strategies and treatments, hepatitis-related deaths are alarmingly on the rise worldwide. To combat this, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) and other global health organizations observe World Hepatitis Day (WHD) by raising awareness about the disease, the challenges faced by those affected and the ongoing efforts to fight hepatitis globally. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent transmission and promote a hepatitis-free future.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, World Hepatitis Day is a crucial opportunity to raise awareness about the devastating impact of viral hepatitis by understanding the facts about hepatitis, its transmission, symptoms and prevention strategies, we can work together to combat this growing public health concern. Let us take proactive steps to prevent transmission, promote a hepatitis-free future, and support those affected by this disease. Remember, early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in managing hepatitis and preventing long-term liver damage. For 24x7 emergency care contact Neotia Getwel Multispecialty Hospital.

Disclaimer

Though all attempts are made to provide correct information on the subject, inadvertent & typographical errors arising out of manual intervention cannot be ruled out. It is requested to bring any such discrepancies to the notice of the blogger for correction