Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver, which is swelling that happens when tissues of the body are injured or infected by a virus causing damage to the liver. This swelling and damage can affect how well your liver functions. Hepatitis can be an acute (short-term) infection or a chronic (long-term) infection.

What causes hepatitis?

• Viral hepatitis is the most common type. It is caused by one of the several hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D and E.
• Alcoholic hepatitis is caused by a high alcohol intake.
• Toxic hepatitis can be caused by certain poisons, medicines, or supplements.
• Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic type in which your body’s immune system attacks your liver, the cause is unknown, but genetics and your environment may play a role.

What are the types of Hepatitis and how are they spread?

• Hepatitis A is mostly a foodborne illness and can be spread through contaminated water and uncooked food like meat. It is the easiest to transmit especially in children but is also the least likely to damage the liver. It is usually mild and is completely resolved within six months.
• Hepatitis B can be transmitted through exposure to contaminated blood, needles, syringes, having unprotected sex with someone who has it, bodily fluids and from mother to newborn. It is a chronic disorder and, in some cases, may lead to long-term liver damage, liver cancer and cirrhosis of the liver after many years of carrying the virus.
• Hepatitis C is only transmitted through infected blood or from mother to newborn during birth, it can also lead to liver cancer and cirrhosis in the long run.
• Hepatitis D is only found in people who are also infected with hepatitis B.
• Hepatitis E is mainly found in Africa, Asia, and South America. Certain generally safe medications can be toxic to the liver and cause hepatitis when taken excessively or in high doses.

Who is at risk for hepatitis?

The risks are different for the different types of hepatitis. For example, with most of the viral types, your risk is higher if you have unprotected sex. People who drink a lot of alcohol over a long period of time are at risk for alcoholic hepatitis.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis?

Some people with hepatitis do not have symptoms and do not know they are infected. Some symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Dark urine
• Joint pain
• Jaundice, yellowing of your skin and eyes.

What are the treatments for hepatitis?

Treatment for hepatitis depends on which type you have and whether it is acute or chronic. Acute viral hepatitis often goes away on its own, you may just need to rest and get enough fluids. But in some cases, it may be required for you to seek medical attention which may include surgery and other medical procedures to feel better. People who drink alcohol may also need to cut down on drinking. To prevent infection, children or anyone who has not been previously vaccinated should be vaccinated against hepatitis B and hepatitis A. There are no vaccines for the other types.

If you suspect you might have Hepatitis, speak to a healthcare provider as soon as possible.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send a Facebook message, an  Instagram message or a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).