What are the symptoms of disease Hepatitis D?

Symptoms of hepatitis D

Hepatitis D is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). HDV is a defective virus that requires the hepatitis B virus (HBV) to replicate. HDV can cause acute or chronic hepatitis, and it can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure.

Acute hepatitis D

The symptoms of acute hepatitis D are similar to those of acute hepatitis B. They may include:

* Fatigue

* Nausea

* Vomiting

* Abdominal pain

* Dark urine

* Light-colored stools

* Joint pain

* Fever

* Chills

Chronic hepatitis D

Chronic hepatitis D can develop in people who have had acute hepatitis D and who continue to be infected with HDV. The symptoms of chronic hepatitis D may be mild or severe. They may include:

* Fatigue

* Nausea

* Vomiting

* Abdominal pain

* Dark urine

* Light-colored stools

* Joint pain

* Fever

* Chills

* Liver damage

* Cirrhosis

* Liver failure

Treatment for hepatitis D

There is no cure for hepatitis D, but there are treatments that can help to slow the progression of the disease and prevent complications. Treatments for hepatitis D may include:

* Interferon-alpha: This medication can help to slow the replication of HDV and improve liver function.

* Pegylated interferon-alpha: This is a longer-acting form of interferon-alpha that may be more effective than standard interferon-alpha.

* Ribavirin: This medication can help to reduce the levels of HDV in the blood.

* Liver transplantation: This may be necessary in people with severe liver damage or liver failure.

Prevention of hepatitis D

The best way to prevent hepatitis D is to avoid getting infected with HBV. HBV is spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. You can protect yourself from HBV by:

* Getting vaccinated against HBV

* Avoiding contact with infected blood or bodily fluids

* Using condoms during sex

* Getting tested for HBV if you are at risk of infection