Hepatitis
Overview
Hepatitis refers to any condition that leads to inflammation of the liver. When the liver is inflamed, it is unable to work properly. This can lead to a variety of issues ranging from mild to severe. If hepatitis is left untreated, a person may develop potentially life-threatening complications including cirrhosis (excessive scarring of liver tissue), liver failure and liver cancer. Hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B and C, may also increase a person’s risk for type 2 diabetes.
Hepatitis can occur due to a variety of reasons. Usually, it’s caused by a viral infection, such as Hepatitis A, B or C. These viral forms of hepatitis are typically spread by coming in contact with the bodily fluids of a person already infected by the virus. Hepatitis A is also acquired through consumption of contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis is largely preventable. Hepatitis A and B, for instance, can be prevented with a vaccine. Other viral forms of the condition can be prevented by practicing good hygiene and safer sex techniques. Responsible alcohol consumption and avoidance of drugs, in addition to other healthy lifestyle behaviors, are also essential to protecting your liver.
Common symptoms
Hepatitis doesn’t always have signs or symptoms, but when it does, they may include:
- Decreased appetite
- Vomiting and nausea
- Dark-colored urine
- Pale bowel movements
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling in the abdomen
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Cognitive dysfunction, such as confusion (due to a build-up of toxins in the brain)
- Sleep dysfunction
- Itching of the skin
In severe and/or late stages of hepatitis, a person may develop jaundice, which occurs due to a build-up of a pigment called bilirubin (a common effect of severe liver disease). Jaundice causes a person’s skin and eyes to take on a yellowish hue.
Specialty care
Treatment options
Hepatitis is generally diagnosed through a combination of tests and measures, including blood tests, imaging studies like a CAT scan or liver ultrasound, liver biopsies, physical exam and medical and family history intake.
Treatment will depend on both the type and severity of hepatitis and may include medications, drug and alcohol cessation and counseling, and in severe cases liver transplant surgery.
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