Viral Hepatitis
Description
Viral hepatitis is a liver infection caused by hepatitis viruses (A, B, C, D, and E), leading to liver inflammation, damage, and potential failure. Types of Viral Hepatitis include: Hepatitis A – Spread through contaminated food/water, usually mild, Hepatitis B – Spread through blood, sex, or mother-to-child transmission, can become chronic, Hepatitis C – Bloodborne, often leads to chronic liver disease, Hepatitis D – Only affects those with hepatitis B, and Hepatitis E – Fecal-oral transmission, common in developing countries. Symptoms include: Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), Dark urine, pale stools, and abdominal pain, and Fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite. Doctors use blood tests and liver function tests to diagnose hepatitis. Treatment varies: Hepatitis A and E resolve on their own, while Hepatitis B and C may require antiviral drugs. Vaccination prevents Hepatitis A and B.