5 Things You Need to Know About Hepatitis

1. Understand The ABC's of Hepatitis

There are several different types of hepatitis caused by different viruses. The most common ones are hepatitis A, B and C. All three types of hepatitis cause inflammation in the liver. Hepatitis A is usually not as serious as B or C but can still lead to liver damage. Hepatitis A is usually transmitted through eating contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B is usually transmitted through sexual contact with an infected individual or through infected blood. Blood transmission is also how hepatitis C is contracted.

2. You May be at Risk

Certain people are at a greater risk of getting infected with the hepatitis virus. People who have multiple sexual partners and who have unprotected sex may get the virus and pass it on to others. Individuals who travel to countries with a high rate of hepatitis may be at risk. Since hepatitis B and C are often transmitted through contact with infected blood being an IV drug user puts you at risk. Health care workers who come in contact with blood also have a higher chance of developing hepatitis B.

3. Prevent and Protect

There are some things you can do to prevent becoming infected with the hepatitis virus. Wash your hands frequently especially after using the bathroom or changing a diaper. Hepatitis A can be transmitted through contact with feces from an infected individual. Healthcare workers need to pay special attention to hand washing. Don't have unprotected sex with a partner until you are sure they do not carry the hepatitis virus. If you are a person who is at risk consider getting a vaccine. There is a vaccine for hepatitis A, which is given in two doses. The hepatitis B vaccine is given in three doses.

4. Similar Symptoms

Because all three of the common types of hepatitis cause inflammation of the liver symptoms may be similar. However the severity of symptom may vary. For example, some people only experience mild symptoms with hepatitis A. When symptoms do occur they may include pain in the abdomen, nausea and possible vomiting. Some people experience weight loss and fever. Other symptoms which may indicate infection with the hepatitis virus are itchy skin, fatigue and producing dark urine.

5. Hepatitis Treatment Options to Consider

It's important to see your doctor at the first signs of hepatitis. Not only so treatment can start but to take precautions to avoid spreading the disease to others. There are different medications to take to treat the different types of hepatitis. For example, treatment for hepatitis B usually includes certain antiviral medications. It's also important to take precautions to avoid any liver damage. Talk to your doctor about medications you are taking for other conditions to determine if they may harm your liver. Also avoid drinking alcoholic beverages if you have hepatitis it can cause more damage to the liver.