Hepatitis – this is not just another H-word, but a deadly disease about which you should know everything. There are various reasons why you need to know about the virus, its impact on the body and the ways to protect yourself from this disease.
What is hepatitis?
“Hepat” means liver and “itis” means swelling, which means Hepatitis is the swelling of the liver. The disease is caused by the virus – Viral Hepatitis. Affecting around 325 million people and causing around 1.4 million deaths every year, viral hepatitis B and C, it is the second major infectious disease after tuberculosis. Thankfully, hepatitis is preventable and treatable if diagnosed on time. Hepatitis hospitals in Delhi have a record of successfully curing hepatitis patients.
This is not the only thing you need to know about the disease. Given below are some more things you need to know about hepatitis, its symptoms, treatment, prevention, etc.
Different types
There are different types of Hepatitis caused by various viruses. Though the symptoms of all the types are similar, the treatment and impacts are different. So, you should be aware of all types of Hepatitis to get the right treatment.
Hepatitis A
This is the easily curable type of Hepatitis if detected at the right time. If it goes unnoticed, the symptoms can take a severe turn and be life-threatening. Doctors give a vaccine to help you fight against the virus and advise you to stay away from alcohol and drugs during treatment.
Hepatitis B
Caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), this type spreads through infected blood, semen, and some other body fluids. This is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that directly affects the liver of the patient. Not just the swelling of the liver, if not treated on time, it can also cause cancer known as hepatocellular carcinoma. Thankfully, hepatitis hospitals in India have a safe and effective vaccine to cure hepatitis B.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most dangerous type of hepatitis that can cause liver damage, swelling, cirrhosis and liver cancer. Infectious fluids and secretions from an infected person are the reasons behind a person contracting the HCV.
Symptoms of Hepatitis
As mentioned above, symptoms of all three types of hepatitis are almost similar. Based on the severity of the disease, patients feel mild or no symptoms of the disease. The common symptoms in the initial phase of hepatitis include:
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weight loss
- Jaundice
- Loss of appetite
- Mild fever
- Muscle or joint aches
- Abdominal pain
As the disease progress, the symptoms might also progress to chronic infection, liver failure and swelling of the lower extremities.
Prevention
As the disease can be dangerous and difficult to treat, it is advisable by the doctors to take preventive steps and stay safe from the possible infection. By following the tips given below, you can prevent hepatitis:
- Wash hands with soap after using the bathroom
- Never get engaged in unprotected sex
- Choose hygienic places when you eat outside
- Get a regular check-up for Hepatitis B and C so that the cases can be diagnosed at the early stage
- Don’t share toothbrushes and razors
- Consume alcohol with moderation
Your health is your most precious asset. Invest your precious time in taking care of it by taking preventive steps. If you still notice any symptom of hepatitis, visit an expert immediately.