Did you know that viral infection causes severe damage to liver cells along with inflammation? There are different types of viral hepatitis, and each one has its own characteristics. Some are treatable and some aren’t, some are acute, and some are chronic. However, the good news all are preventable. Learn about different types of hepatitis infections and preventive measures in this article. Log on to www.doralhw.org for a consultation.

Types and symptoms of each type of hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is caused by 5 main viruses: A, B, C, D, and E. Each type has its own characteristics and transmission ways; however, their symptoms are somewhat similar. These types can lead to severe illness, and in some cases can be life-threatening as well.

1. Hepatitis A:

Hepatitis A is caused by the infection of the hepatitis A virus (HAV), which is usually a short-term disease. According to CDC estimates, approximately 24,900 new hepatitis A infections are detected each year in the United States. While the total number of US cases has declined in the last 20 years due to immunization, sometimes outbreaks happen.

Transmission happens when people come in contact with food and water that’s contaminated with fecal matter from an infected person. It is quite common in many countries, particularly those that have ineffective sanitation systems. Its symptoms start appearing within 14 to 28 days (about 4 weeks).

Symptoms
Its symptoms include:

• Fever
• Jaundice
• Malaise
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Dark-colored urine
• Low appetite

However, many people don’t experience any symptoms at all. Most people recover within a few weeks to several months. After that, they develop immunity to the virus. Children under 6 years usually show any symptoms. In rare cases, hepatitis can be fatal, however, the risk is quite low because of vaccinations. Certain groups of people are more prone to hepatitis A which include:

• International travelers.
• People who consume unhygienic food or water.
• People living in poorly sanitized areas.
• MSM (sexual activity between men).
• Sexual activity with an infected person.
• Homeless people.
• Drug abusers.

2. Hepatitis B:

Similar to hepatitis A, this is a short-term infection. However, it can be chronic as well, especially in children. It is caused by hepatitis B. According to CDC estimation, 826,000 people (about half the population of Idaho) are living with chronic hepatitis B in the United States and around 257 million people worldwide.

Chronic hepatitis B affects around 15 to 25% and leads to long-term complications such as liver cancer or cirrhosis. There is no cure for this disease, however, treatment can help you manage the condition. It usually spreads when you met an infected person’s blood or semen. Some factors can increase your risk of infection including:

• Having sex without a condom.
• Sharing needles.
• Getting a tattoo with unsterilized needles.
• Sharing personal items.
• Birth from an infected person or breastfeeding by them.
• Assist accidental skin pricks with medical equipment.

Symptoms
While symptoms are usually like other types of hepatitis, some people may be asymptomatic as well. If a person displays hepatitis B symptoms, it may include:

• Skin rash
• Fever
• Arthritis
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Joint pain
• Jaundice
• Nausea
• Anorexia

Now, the number of cases has declined dramatically due to the introduction of a vaccine that protects you from hepatitis B infection.

3. Hepatitis C:

Hepatitis C is the most common bloodborne viral infection in the United States and is generally a long-term condition. It’s caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). According to the CDC’s estimation, around 2.4 million people (about the population of Kansas) live with this virus in the US. The cases have been growing since 2010. Most people who work at healthcare centers handle sharps and children born to females with the virus are more at risk. While it’s a short-term disease, however, more than half of people with hepatitis C suffer from a chronic long-term infection.

Symptoms
Most people have no symptoms, and that’s why they are not even aware they are infected. They may transmit to another person without realizing it. If you show symptoms, it may include:

• Nausea
• Dark urine
• Jaundice
• Right upper quadrant pain
• Malaise

4. Hepatitis D:

It is a rare form of hepatitis that occurs in conjunction with hepatitis B infection. It is caused by hepatitis D virus (HDV) which leads to liver inflammation like other strains, but a person cannot contract HDV without existing hepatitis B infection. Globally, only 5% of people with hepatitis B develop a hepatitis D infection.

Symptoms
Most people don’t experience any symptoms at all. If symptoms present, it may resemble other hepatitis infections like:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Jaundice
• Confusion
• Bruising
• Bleeding
• Abdominal pain

5. Hepatitis E:

This is a waterborne infection that is caused by exposure to the hepatitis E virus (HEV). It spreads in areas with poor sanitation (after ingesting fecal matter contaminating the water supply). Usually, hepatitis E is acute but can be chronic (for pregnant women or immunosuppressed individuals). According to the CDC, hepatitis E is uncommon in the United States, but the most frequent cause of acute infections causes over 50,000 deaths per year worldwide.

Symptoms
Most people don’t experience any symptoms at all. If you develop symptoms, it is usually mild. It includes:

• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Jaundice
• Malaise
• Anorexia

Although a person may contract hepatitis E via blood transfusion, food and water that are infected with the feces of an infected person are the most common infection routes.

Prevention
You can prevent hepatitis transmission by taking certain measures depending on the type. Experts recommend regular screening for considerable risk for hepatitis A, B, and C. Routine screening is recommended during pregnancy for hepatitis B and C.

Hepatitis A and E

They mostly spread through food and water that come into contact with the feces of the infected person.
Here are certain ways to prevent these infections:

• Wash your hands properly after using the bathroom and before eating.
• Ensure that the food is perfectly cooked and stored.
• Drink only seal-packed bottled water when traveling.
• Avoid fruits and vegetables that may be washed or grown in Un sanitized water.

People also get the hepatitis A vaccine, especially if they plan to travel abroad where the virus is prevalent.

Hepatitis B, C, and D

You can lower your risk of these hepatitis infections by taking certain measures:

• Use a barrier protection such as a condom while having sex.
• Share information about your sexual partners who may have any infections/diseases.
• Only used clean needles.
• Avoid sharing personal things like razors, toothbrushes, and manicure instruments.
• Check whether any tattoo or acupuncture equipment is sterile or not before using.

People who are at risk of hepatitis B exposure should consult with their doctor about the vaccination, however, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C. People should seek help if they think they’re exposed to the hepatitis virus. Doctors ensure to give you medical treatment, lower the risk of complications, and how to prevent transmitting the virus.

There are five main types of hepatitis viruses, and each one has its own characteristics. However, the good thing is you can prevent them by taking specific preventive measures that are mentioned above. In case you experience any hepatitis virus symptoms, then seek medical help to manage the conditions and prevent its spread.

Need help with hepatitis infection, visit our infectious doctors in Brooklyn clinic to get professional treatment. Don’t make your body suffer more from the infection, get professional help by visiting our infectious disease specialists in our Brooklyn clinic. They listen to your concerns and treat you accordingly. Get free tips on how to stay safe from infectious diseases. Call us on +1-347-384-5690. If you need any information on infections, log on to www.doralhw.org to get a consultation. We have the best doctors that can help you and improve your quality of life!