Marked by severe liver inflammation, hepatitis is a condition that disrupts normal liver function and carries potential, life-threatening risks. The condition may either be triggered by an infection or could be due to the autoimmune response to non-infectious agents like heavy drinking, which can lead to severe liver injury. Hepatitis symptoms can vary greatly depending on the type of hepatitis and its severity. Hepatitis is broadly classified into 5 different types - Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Hepatitis D, and Hepatitis E. In this blog, we have elaborated on these types in detail along with the various preventive measures that can help bring down the risks of the same, with the help of experts specializing in Liver Transplant Surgeon in Gurgaon.

Hepatitis Symptoms: Understanding Different Types and Prevention

Hepatitis is a condition that encompasses multiple types, each with its unique symptoms and methods of transmission. The symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the type of hepatitis and the patient’s overall health. Let's explore the five main types of hepatitis along with how you can prevent them effectively.

Hepatitis A

As the name suggests, the condition is caused by the Hepatitis A virus or HAV, which generally spreads via contaminated eatables and drinks. The symptoms of Hepatitis A include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Generally, patients infected with Hepatitis A recover without any major complications. However, in some cases, it can lead to fulminant liver failure. Fortunately, Hepatitis A can be prevented with vaccination. It generally lasts for around 2 to 4 weeks, with the symptoms ranging from mild to severe. The symptoms are more evident in adults as compared to kids. About 10 percent of children below the age of 6 who develop Hepatitis A are likely to develop jaundice.

Transmission
Hepatitis A usually spreads via the fecal-oral route, i.e., by the consumption of food products or water contaminated by the virus. This happens when someone touches the food with dirty hands or prepares meals using unsafe water that hasn’t been treated properly. It can also spread via physical contact, especially during intercourse.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a potentially life-threatening infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus, which can be acute or chronic. The symptoms of Hepatitis B may include jaundice, dark urine, fatigue, and joint pain. With around 1.5 million new cases diagnosed every year, Hepatitis B claims more than 800,000 lives annually. The chances of an adult with the Hepatitis B virus developing a chronic infection are no more than 5 percent, whereas the chances are significantly higher in infants and small children. It can lead to severe liver damage and has also been listed as a leading risk factor for liver cirrhosis. However, Hepatitis B can also be prevented with vaccination. If you’re experiencing any hepatitis symptoms like jaundice or fatigue, consulting a Liver Transplant Surgeon in Gurgaon can provide crucial insights and care.

Transmission
The virus usually spreads via contaminated body fluids and can be passed on from a mother to her child during pregnancy. It can also be transmitted through contaminated blood, saliva, vaginal fluids, seminal fluids, and the reuse of infected needles. As per the top Liver Transplant Surgeon in Gurgaon, the risks are high in people who use injectable drugs or have multiple sexual partners.

Hepatitis C

Just like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C has been associated with serious complications like cirrhosis. The symptoms of Hepatitis C can vary significantly and include fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite. The condition may be acute or chronic, with the severity of the symptoms varying from one person to another. With about 1.5 million cases diagnosed every year, more than 5.8 million people across the globe are living with chronic hepatitis C. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine available to prevent Hepatitis C.

Transmission
Hepatitis C spreads via infected blood through reusable injections, blood transfusions, injectable drugs, and unsafe intercourse. Unsafe healthcare practices, like a lack of proper sterilization and sanitization, are also leading causes of Hepatitis C transmission. If you are experiencing any hepatitis symptoms related to Hepatitis C, it is crucial to seek consultation with a Liver Transplant Surgeon in Gurgaon for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is caused by the Hepatitis D virus and is only seen in people already infected with Hepatitis B. The symptoms of Hepatitis D can intensify existing liver complications. This condition affects about 5 percent of the total population of people living with Hepatitis B. This means that both infections coexist in the patient’s body. If you have been immunized against Hepatitis B, it naturally alleviates your risks of developing Hepatitis D as well.

Transmission
Hepatitis D is highly contagious and can spread via skin contact. The condition can also be bloodborne, and in rare cases, it can be passed down from a mother to her child.

Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E is a leading cause of acute viral hepatitis in Indian adults. A lot of patients suffering from it do not need medical intervention. However, in rare cases, the condition can lead to serious liver damage and long-term complications.

Transmission
Hepatitis E spreads via contaminated eatables and water. It is most commonly seen in people living in rural areas and slums who do not have access to safe drinking water. If you experience hepatitis symptoms, such as nausea or abdominal pain, consulting healthcare experts, including a Liver Transplant Surgeon in Gurgaon, can help you take proactive steps for treatment.

Tips for Preventing Hepatitis

• Do not miss your vaccinations. Get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B.
• Practice safe sex and always wear protection.
• Do not share your needles with anyone.
• Do not share food and personal belongings with someone who has been infected.
• Make it a habit to wash your hands before meals.
• Clean all the fruits and vegetables with running tap water.
• Take extra precautions while traveling to areas with poor sanitation.
• Always carry bottled water.
• Avoid getting piercings and tattoos from unauthorized places.

If you wish to know more about hepatitis, its symptoms, and how it can be prevented, consult the best Liver Transplant Surgeon in Gurgaon for unparalleled care and guidance.