Viral Hepatitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Viral hepatitis is a liver infection caused by a virus. There are several types of viral hepatitis, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Symptoms of viral hepatitis can include fatigue, fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, clay-colored stools, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).

Hepatitis A is usually spread through contaminated food or water, and symptoms typically resolve within a few weeks with rest and supportive care. A vaccine is available to prevent hepatitis A.

Hepatitis B and C are typically spread through blood or other bodily fluids, and can lead to chronic liver disease and liver cancer if left untreated. Treatment may involve antiviral medication, and a vaccine is available to prevent hepatitis B.

Hepatitis D only occurs in people who are already infected with hepatitis B, and can worsen the effects of hepatitis B. Treatment may involve antiviral medication.

Hepatitis E is typically spread through contaminated food or water, and is usually a self-limited illness that resolves within a few weeks with rest and supportive care.

Diagnosis of viral hepatitis involves blood tests to check for the presence of specific viral markers, as well as liver function tests to assess the degree of liver damage. Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis and the severity of the disease, and may include antiviral medications, supportive care, and lifestyle changes to promote liver health.

It is important to get tested for viral hepatitis if you have risk factors for infection, such as injection drug use, unprotected sex, or travel to areas with high rates of hepatitis. Practicing good hygiene, avoiding risky behaviors, and getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and B are important steps in preventing viral hepatitis.