Hepatitis symptoms might change based on the virus type and infection stage. However, typical signs include:
Weakness and tiredness
Flu-like symptoms (fever, headache, and pain in the muscles or joints)
Nausea and diarrhoea
Lack of appetite
Abdominal discomfort or pain, particularly close to the liver
Jaundice (skin and eye yellowing)
Pale stools and urine with a dark colour
Skin itch
In some circumstances, an enlarged spleen or liver (hepatomegaly).
Diagnosis:
Your doctor may order a number of tests to identify the type of hepatitis you have, and if you have any hepatitis symptoms or risk factors for the illness.
These tests may consist of imaging examinations like ultrasound or MRI to assess liver damage, liver function tests, and blood tests to identify viral indicators.
Prevention:
Vaccination: Hepatitis A and B vaccines are readily available. The vaccines are highly efficient at preventing infection, and they are advised for at-risk persons, healthcare professionals, tourists visiting areas with a high prevalence, and some high-risk populations.
Hygiene: Hepatitis A and E, which are frequently spread through contaminated food and drink, can be prevented by practising proper hygiene, which includes frequent handwashing.
Safe Sex: Using barrier techniques like condoms helps lower the risk of infection because hepatitis B and C can be sexually transmitted.
Avoid Sharing Needles: Hepatitis B and C can be spread by exchanging needles or other injecting tools used for drugs. Using sterilised, clean equipment and needles can help prevent transmission. So can avoid drug usage.
Treatment:
Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A does not have a specific therapy, and the majority of patients heal on their own in a few weeks to months.
Hepatitis Band C: Antiviral drugs are used to treat persistent cases of hepatitis B and C. These drugs may help prevent problems, halt the disease’s progression, and occasionally even remove the virus from the body.
Hepatitis D: Although there is no specific antiviral medication for this disease, addressing the underlying hepatitis B can help outcomes.
Hepatitis E: Hepatitis E typically goes away on its own without needing any special care. Pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems, however, might need more supervision and medical attention.
Keep in mind, to ensure correct examination, diagnosis, and management, always seek the advice of a healthcare provider if you suspect you have hepatitis or are at risk. Early detection and effective treatment can enhance results and reduce hepatitis-related problems.
