Monday, December 16, 2024

Understanding the Various Types of Hepatitis Virus

by | March 22, 2022 0

It’s quite obvious that this might or may not be the first time you are hearing about this life-threatening infection or disease called Hepatitis. Surely, you must be familiar with the word “Hepatitis” or heard about someone been infected with this disease or might even have someone that is very close to you that is suffering from hepatitis. We’re also aware that you truly want to know all that there is about Hepatitis so as to prevent it or just for personal knowledge. Whichever way, let’s throw more light on this viral infection called Hepatitis.

What is Hepatitis?

Simply, Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver which can be caused by many factors ranging from excess alcohol, wrong medications, virus among others. It’s worthy to note that the most common cause of Hepatitis is virus.

Types of Hepatitis

Generally, Hepatitis are classified according to the virus that is causing it. In view of that, we have the following types of hepatitis.

Hepatitis A

This is caused by a type A Hepatitis virus. This type is usually acute and short-termed and can be corrected when diagnosed on time. They are spread through exposure to people infected with the illness or contaminated water or food.

Hepatitis B

This is caused by a type B Hepatitis virus. It’s often an ongoing chronic condition that is common among many men and women suffering from Hepatitis in general. Type B HBV can lead to death if left untreated and can cause liver cancer or liver cirrhosis. It’s been spread through the body fluids and blood of an infected person.

Hepatitis C

This comes from the Hepatitis type C virus which is believed to be among the most common blood-borne viral infection in the liver. Type C HCV don’t usually show any symptoms that would encourage doctor’s visit. There is no vaccine for type C Hepatitis virus because it mutates too quickly.

Hepatitis D

This type is usually rare because it only occurs in conjunction with Hepatitis B infection. It’s a known fact that a person cannot contact Hepatitis D without having Hepatitis B.

Hepatitis E

This is a waterborne hepatitis disease that is gotten when you expose yourself to a hepatitis virus. It’s commonly found in areas with poor sanitation and typically results from ingesting fecal matter that contaminates water supply. There are no specific medical therapies available to treat HEV. Because the infection is often acute and typically resolves on its own. Individuals with this infection are advised by doctors to avoid alcohol, get adequate rest, drink plenty of fluids and get enough nutrients.

Symptoms of Viral Hepatitis

There are numerous symptoms but the following are most profound and remarkable with a few differences.

Hepatitis A

  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Dark urine
  • Pale stool
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Yellow skin and eyes (Jaundice)

Typically, infected children below 6years of age won’t show any symptoms, while adults will experience the symptoms outlined above. The HAV symptoms usually last about two to three months and result in antibodies that protect against reinfection.

Read Also: Understanding the Various Types of Hypertension

Hepatitis B

  • Fatigue
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Dark urine
  • Vomiting or Nausea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Aching joints
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Yellow skin and eyes (Jaundice)

The type B symptoms usually last about 6months. Meanwhile, those infected with this chronic disease may experience severe liver damage. The earlier it’s contracted in life, the more damage it usually does.

Hepatitis C

  • Fatigue
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Dark urine
  • Fever
  • Vomiting or Nausea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Yellow skin and eyes (Jaundice)

Type C Virus don’t usually show any symptoms when someone becomes infected.

Prevention and Treatment of Hepatitis

When it comes to the treatment of Hepatitis, the patient must be properly diagnosed to ascertain the type of Hepatitis with which the patient is infected with. When that is done, the doctor is now free to administer the correct medication or treatment. But when it comes to the idea of previous Hepatitis from affecting you or your loved ones, a lot has to be done. The following are helpful preventive measures against Hepatitis.

  • Practicing proper hygiene at all times.
  • Avoid sharing razor blades, needles, or any sharp objects.
  • Avoid using someone’s toothbrush.
  • Stay away from touching spilled blood because the virus typically thrives on blood.
  • Always go for a medical check-up whether you are feeling well or not. It helps to discover what and what is right and wrong in your body.

Vaccination

It’s recommended to vaccinate against the virus.  The HAV vaccine is available and can help in preventing the contraction of the virus. The type A vaccine is a series of two doses and most children begins vaccination at the age of twelve months to twenty-three months. It’s also available for adults and can include the type B vaccine.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the HBV vaccination for all infants. Typically, doctors administer a series of three vaccines over the first six months of childhood. They also recommend vaccines for all medical and healthcare personnel.

Currently, vaccination against HBV can also prevent HDV (Hepatitis D Virus) and no vaccines for HCV or HEV.

It’s well known that you have got something out of this and we’re also aware that you now know what you need to know about Hepatitis, its types, what causes it, and its preventive measures.

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