Question

Different Types Of Hepatitis You Must Know About!

Dr.Sanjeev Kumar Singh · Accepted Answer

Hepatitis is a condition that causes inflammation in the liver. It typically occurs due to a viral infection. However, some other factors or an underlying condition may also lead to hepatitis. These include autoimmune diseases and the use of toxic substances, drugs and alcohol.

Hepatitis is classified into five types, depending on the virus that has caused the infection in the liver. These viruses are referred to as types A, B, C, D, and E. Here is a look at each of the viruses causing a different type of hepatitis

Hepatitis A - Hepatitis A results from an infection with the HAV (hepatitis A virus) present in an infected person s faeces. Most often, the disease is transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food and water. In other cases, unsafe sex practices may also lead to the spread of the HAV. People with hepatitis A usually observe mild symptoms and are able to recover completely with improved immunity. However, with delayed screening and lack of medical intervention, the symptoms may be severe and the condition, life-threatening. Those, living in areas with access to poor sanitation are at risk of hepatitis A. The condition can be prevented with effective and safe vaccines.

Hepatitis B - This particular type of hepatitis is passed on by through exposure to infectious bodily fluids, like semen, blood etc that contain the HBV (hepatitis B virus). The use of intravenous drugs, sexual intercourse or sharing needles and razors with an infected person puts you at a higher risk of contracting hepatitis B. It is also common for a newborn to get the HBV from an infected mother at childbirth or early childhood. Transmission may happen through HBV-contaminated blood transfusions. Healthcare workers prone to an accidental needle-stick injury are at an increased risk of hepatitis B. Nevertheless, vaccines are available for prevention.

Hepatitis C - Hepatitis C is caused by the HCV (hepatitis C virus). It is mostly passed on by coming in direct contact with infective blood, typically through contaminated needles and injections, blood transfusion during medical procedures, intravenous drug use, and rarely, unprotected sex. There is no vaccine currently available to ward off hepatitis C.

Hepatitis D - Hepatitis D is a rare and more serious type of the disease caused by the HDV (hepatitis D virus). The virus is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person s blood. This type of hepatitis is common only in people, who have hepatitis B. The vaccine against hepatitis B also protects against hepatitis D.

Hepatitis E - Hepatitis E refers to a waterborne illness caused by the HEV (hepatitis E virus). This particular form of hepatitis mostly affects those residing in areas that have poor access to sanitation. It is transmitted by consuming contaminated food and water, ingested by faeces. Vaccine for hepatitis E is yet to be developed globally.

Treatment of hepatitis depends on the severity of symptoms and type of hepatitis you have been infected with. Antiviral medications and immunosuppressants are usually the first lines of treatment. Besides, vaccines and safe hygiene practices are strongly recommended to prevent the risk of the disease.

Hepatitis B Health Feed

Different Types Of Hepatitis You Must Know About!

Is there any chance of hepatitis b spread through bathing soap containing infected blood.

I have given today hepatitis b vaccination to baby and nurse told to come for to take polio drops to baby next day can I take polio drops for baby next day or not.

I have had hbv for over eleven years now and l had not had any bad sentom some times and when I go for test it's still there what do you say is happening.

I am having hepatitis b I am not under any treatment because hepatitis is in just detectable stage it is not in large quantities can I take mass gainer as a supplement for gym and bodybuilding?

Wat are the incubation period for hepatitis b, c and wat are the symptoms of chlymadia gonnorrea in females.

I am 45 years old. I was diagnosed of hbv. Before doing the test, I had unsafe sex with my wife. I am currently on lamivudine for 6 months. My question is can I have unsafe sex (sex without using condom)? Can I take the hbv vaccine?

My latest medical test says I am reactive with hepatitis b. What should I do? Do I need to ask for second opinion from another doctor? Also, how do I regain back my health and be free from the virus?