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What Is Hepatitis A, B and C?

The term hepatitis refers to swelling of the liver, a scenario that can be quite catastrophic to the overall mechanics of the body. The liver is an organ that has a very big responsibility and when it is not functioning properly, the breakdown of proteins, filtration of toxins, production of hormones and the efficient balance of the metabolism are all in jeopardy. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services explains that there are three main forms of hepatitis; each one originating from a viral source. There is no cure for hepatitis, only treatments to relieve the symptoms.

  1. Hepatitis A

    • Hepatitis A is a liver condition that is caused by HAV (hepatitis A virus). The virus is known to be transmitted through sexual activity, feces or contaminated food sources. Hepatitis A is an acute illness, which means that it begins abruptly and lasts for only a short time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) hepatitis A usually lasts for several weeks before it finally resolves itself. Flu-like symptoms usually appear shortly after becoming infected with hepatitis A, followed by nausea, loss of appetite, itching, stomach pain and yellowing of the skin (jaundice). It is important to note that once a person acquires the hepatitis A virus, lifelong immunities develop that prevent the infection from occurring again.

    Hepatitis B

    • Hepatitis B is a liver disorder that is caused by the HBV (hepatitis B virus) virus. The seriousness of the disease varies, and chronic cases can eventually lead to severe liver disease or liver cancer. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) explains that anyone can acquire hepatitis B, especially those who are born to a mother who has hepatitis B, intravenous drug users, and anyone who lives with someone who has hepatitis B or lives in an area that has a high concentration of infected individuals. The hepatitis B virus is spread through the bodily fluids of someone who is infected and can create an array of symptoms, including jaundice, bleeding problems, easy bruising, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, light stools and dark urine.

    Hepatitis C

    • Hepatitis C (HCV) is the most serious of the three liver disorders and is usually transmitted through infected blood, but can also be sexually transmitted. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the hepatitis C virus causes very few, if any, symptoms in the beginning stages of the infection. When symptoms do occur they are usually in the form of muscle aches, vomiting, fatigue, jaundice and soreness in the area of the liver.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The prevention of hepatitis A can be achieved by practicing good hygiene. According to the Mayo Clinic, hepatitis A can be prevented by steering clear of undercooked fish and meat. In areas that have high outbreaks of hepatitis A, it is a good idea to drink bottled water or boil tap water before drinking. Hepatitis B and C are best avoided by using sterile needles, being extra cautious around blood and the other bodily fluids of others and practicing safe sex. Vaccinations are available for hepatitis A and hepatitis B, but there is no vaccination to guard against hepatitis C.

    Treatments

    • According to Hepatitis Foundation International, hepatitis A sufferers usually improve without treatment. However, patients with hepatitis B will often need interferon therapy to relieve their symptoms. This type of treatment is often required for at least six months. Patients with hepatitis C are also treated with interferon therapy, which may be combined with ribavirin. Ribavirin is an antiviral that may cause a secondary anemia. So it is essential that patients taking ribavirin be monitored and treated for anemia, as well.

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