World Hepatitis Day 2023: Understanding different types of hepatitis, symptoms, treatment and prevention methods

Each type of hepatitis is caused by a different virus and varies in its mode of transmission, severity and treatment options. (Source: Freepik)

The risk of hepatitis can vary depending on the type of hepatitis virus, as per Dr Singh. However, there are some common risk factors associated with hepatitis infection, including:

– Travelling or living in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices

– Consumption of contaminated food or water, especially in areas with inadequate sanitation

– Being in contact with or in proximity to the infected person

– Having unprotected sex with an infected partner

– Sharing needles or other drug-injection equipment with an infected person

– Pregnant women and babies born to mothers with Hepatitis B

– Exposed to infected blood or body fluids either by transfusion or any other means

– Already infected with hepatitis or other liver diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD)

Signs and symptoms

Dr Vishal Sehgal, president, Portea Medical, explained that the signs and symptoms of viral hepatitis can vary depending on the type of virus and whether the infection is acute or chronic. Some common signs and symptoms of viral hepatitis include the following:

Fatigue: Feeling excessively tired and weak is a common symptom of all types of viral hepatitis.

Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes is a classic symptom of hepatitis caused by the buildup of bilirubin in the blood due to liver dysfunction.

Loss of appetite: A reduced desire to eat and weight loss are common in hepatitis.

Nausea and vomiting: Many people with viral hepatitis experience nausea and may occasionally vomit.

Abdominal pain: Some individuals may experience discomfort or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen where the liver is located.

Dark urine: The urine may appear darker than usual due to the presence of bilirubin.

Clay-coloured stools: Stools may become pale or clay-coloured due to a lack of bile pigments.

Joint pain: Hepatitis C, in particular, can cause joint pain and body aches.

Fever: Fever is more common in acute viral hepatitis.

“It is important to note that some individuals with viral hepatitis, especially in the early stages or in cases of chronic infection, may not exhibit noticeable symptoms. As a result, hepatitis infections can go undiagnosed,” Dr Sehgal said.

Diagnosis and treatment

Dr Gopalakrishna noted that medical history, a long history of travel, contact, immunisation and assessment of risk factors is needed of the patient.

“A physical examination is done to assess the severity of jaundice, liver enlargement and clinical signs of liver failure or underlying chronic liver disease,” he said.

“Blood tests play an important role in diagnosis. These tests can detect antibodies or viral genetic material — confirming the presence of the virus and determining the specific type of hepatitis infection.”

Additionally, the expert said imaging studies, especially ultrasound (sonograms) may be performed to assess the condition of the liver. A liver biopsy might also be considered in special circumstances.

Explaining the different types of treatment, Dr Singh said that it depends on the type of severity of the infection. “For acute viral hepatitis, often caused by hepatitis A, B, or E viruses, supportive care is typically provided to manage symptoms such as fatigue, nausea and jaundice. In most cases, the body can clear the infection on its own without specific antiviral medications.”

However, she said that for chronic viral hepatitis, especially hepatitis B and C, antiviral medications may be prescribed to suppress viral replication, reduce liver inflammation and prevent further liver damage. These treatments can significantly improve long-term outcomes and prevent complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.

As for non-viral causes of hepatitis such as alcoholic liver disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), Dr Singh said that lifestyle modifications are crucial components of treatment. “Individuals are advised to avoid alcohol consumption in the case of alcoholic liver disease and adopt a healthy diet, exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight for NAFLD. In cases where the liver has developed significant scarring (cirrhosis), additional measures may be required, including close monitoring and in some cases, liver transplantation,” she added.

Signs and symptoms of viral hepatitis can vary depending on the type of virus and whether the infection is acute or chronic. (Source: Freepik)

Precautions for hepatitis involve various measures to prevent the transmission of the virus and to protect and preserve liver health. Here are the necessary precautions individuals should take, according to Dr Singh:

Vaccination: Vaccination against hepatitis A and B is essential to prevent infection. The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for travellers to regions with high prevalence, while the hepatitis B vaccine is advisable for individuals at risk, including healthcare workers and those with multiple sexual partners.

Practice hygiene: Maintain good hygiene practices such as washing hands thoroughly and avoiding contact with contaminated items.

Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps maintain liver health. Limiting fatty and processed foods can prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic liver disease — exacerbating liver damage. Moderating or avoiding alcohol is crucial for liver health.

Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of fatty liver disease.

Practice safe sex: Engage in safe sexual practices such as using condoms to reduce the risk of hepatitis B transmission through sexual contact.

Avoid sharing needles: Intravenous drug users should avoid sharing needles or syringes to prevent the spread of hepatitis B and C.

Avoid contact with infected blood: Take precautions when handling blood or body fluids to prevent hepatitis transmission.

Avoid self-medication: Consult healthcare professionals before taking over-the-counter medications or supplements as certain drugs can affect liver function.

Get tested regularly: Individuals at risk for hepatitis should undergo regular liver health screenings to detect any liver conditions early and take appropriate measures.

Seek medical assistance: If symptoms of hepatitis such as jaundice, fatigue or abdominal pain, are observed, seek medical attention promptly for evaluation and diagnosis.

Follow treatment plans: If diagnosed with chronic hepatitis, adhere to prescribed treatment plans, including antiviral medications, lifestyle modifications and regular monitoring.