Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is an infection that damages and inflames the liver. Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E are a few of the viruses that cause the disease. Acute infections caused by the hepatitis A and E viruses are common. The hepatitis B, C, and D viruses can result in acute and chronic illnesses.
Hepatitis-causing viruses can be aggravated by toxins, excessive alcohol intake, some medicines, and particular medical conditions.

Symptoms:
Many patients with hepatitis A, B, C, D, or E may experience minor symptoms, if any at all. However, more severe symptoms may arise from each viral variant. Fever, malaise, lack of appetite, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice are some of the symptoms of hepatitis A, B, and C. In some instances, the virus can also result in a persistent liver infection, which may later progress to cirrhosis (liver scarring) or liver cancer. Death is a possibility for some patients.

Treatment:
Hepatitis B virus vaccinations are accessible and reliable (HBV). Additionally, this vaccine suppresses the growth of the hepatitis D virus (HDV), and when administered at delivery, it significantly lowers the chance of transmission from mother to child.

Antiviral medications can be used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection. Cirrhosis can be treated to delay its course, lower the risk of liver cancer, and increase long-term survival. Treatment is only necessary for a small percentage of those with chronic hepatitis B infection. Additionally, there is a vaccination for hepatitis E (HEV), however it is not yet generally accessible. HBV and HEV do not have specific therapies, and hospitalisation is typically not necessary. Because these infections have a significant impact on liver function, it is advisable to avoid using unneeded drugs.