What is Hepatitis (A, B, C)?
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, typically caused by viral infections. Hepatitis A, B, and C are three distinct types, each caused by different viruses.
- Hepatitis A: Usually transmitted through contaminated food or water or close contact with an infected person. It is typically acute and doesn't result in chronic infection.
- Hepatitis B: Transmitted through blood, semen, or other body fluids. It can be acute or chronic and can lead to severe liver damage.
- Hepatitis C: Mainly spread through blood-to-blood contact. It often becomes a chronic infection and can lead to liver cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated.
Side effects of Hepatitis (A, B, C):
The symptoms of hepatitis can vary depending on the type and stage of the infection. Common symptoms include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, and clay-colored stools. In some cases, hepatitis can progress to liver failure, which can be life-threatening.
How is Hepatitis (A, B, C) diagnosed?
Diagnosing Hepatitis typically involves a combination of blood tests and medical history review. Specific tests are available to detect antibodies or antigens related to each type of hepatitis virus. Liver function tests and imaging tests like ultrasound may also be used to assess the severity of liver damage.
Potential treatments of Hepatitis (A, B, C):
- Hepatitis A: There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A other than supportive care. Most people recover fully without complications.
- Hepatitis B: Treatment for chronic hepatitis B may involve antiviral medications to suppress the virus and reduce the risk of liver damage. In some cases, interferon injections may also be used.
- Hepatitis C: Antiviral medications are the primary treatment for hepatitis C. Direct-acting antiviral drugs have revolutionized the treatment of hepatitis C, with high cure rates and fewer side effects compared to older treatments.
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