World Hepatitis Day
Every year on July 28th, we mark World Hepatitis Day to raise awareness about hepatitis, an illness that inflames and damages the liver.
Hepatitis is a worry because it can cause serious liver damage, which can lead to long-term health issues like liver failure, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. In fact, it is estimated that every 30 seconds, a person dies from a viral hepatitis-related illness.
What is hepatitis?
There are five main hepatitis viruses – types A, B, C, D and E.
- Hepatitis A
This is spread through eating or drinking contaminated food or water, or coming into contact with an infected person’s body waste (poo). It usually doesn’t lead to chronic liver disease, but it can cause severe liver inflammation and can be especially serious for older adults.
- Hepatitis B
This spreads through contact with infectious body fluids, like blood, semen, or vaginal fluids. This can mean sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to baby during childbirth. Hepatitis B can lead to chronic liver disease, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer. It is a major health problem across the world because of its ability to cause long-term liver damage.
- Hepatitis C
It is mainly spread through blood-to-blood contact, such as sharing needles.
Many people with Hepatitis C develop chronic liver disease, which can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. It is a major cause of chronic liver disease worldwide.
- Hepatitis D
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) can only occur in people who are already infected with Hepatitis B and spreads in the same way – through contact with infectious body fluids.
It can cause more severe liver disease than Hepatitis B alone and can speed up the development of severe liver problems like cirrhosis and liver cancer.
- Hepatitis E
This is usually spread through drinking water contaminated with human waste, often in areas with poor sanitation. Hepatitis E usually goes away on its own, but it can be serious for pregnant women, causing severe problems and even death.
What are the symptoms of hepatitis?
Often, hepatitis has no symptoms. If you do have symptoms they may include:
- Feeling very tired
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Dark urine
- Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes)
- Swelling in the legs and abdomen
- Confusion
If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare professional.
How is hepatitis treated?
Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis you have:
- Hepatitis A and E: Usually get better on their own if you get enough rest, drink enough fluids and eat nutritious meals.
- Hepatitis B and D: Often need antiviral medications to reduce liver damage and prevent complications.
- Hepatitis C: In order to prevent liver damage, early diagnosis and treatment are vital. Hepatitis C is often treated with antiviral medications.
How is hepatitis prevented?
- Vaccinate: Get vaccinated to prevent hepatitis A and B. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, D, or E.
- Safe practices: Don’t share needles, razors, toothbrushes or anything that brings you into contact with other people’s blood.
- Safe sex: Use condoms to reduce the risk of hepatitis B and C.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet and before touching food.
- Practice food safety: Make sure your food and water are from safe sources. Avoid undercooked or raw food in areas with poor sanitation.
- Get regular health checkups: Make sure you catch hepatitis early.
