What is Infective Hepatitis ?
Infective hepatitis is liver inflammation caused by viruses, most commonly hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. These viruses can cause acute or chronic liver disease and spread through contaminated food, water, blood, or close contact.
Symptoms of Infective Hepatitis
- 1. Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- 2. Fatigue and weakness
- 3. Loss of appetite
- 4. Nausea and vomiting
- 5. Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side
- 6. Dark urine and pale stools
- 7. Fever and body aches
The Main Impact of Infective Hepatitis
The main impact of infective hepatitis is liver damage, which can range from mild inflammation to severe liver failure. In acute cases, it may resolve with treatment, but chronic infections, particularly hepatitis B and C, can lead to serious complications like cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure. A hidden impact is its often asymptomatic nature in the early stages, especially with hepatitis B and C, allowing the disease to progress silently for years. This can result in late diagnosis and irreversible liver damage. Additionally, chronic hepatitis can affect mental health and quality of life, causing fatigue, depression, and social stigma.
Consult Our Infectious Disease Specialist
- Dr. Azela Glady, MBBS : Board-certified infectious disease specialist with expertise in infective hepatitis diagnosis and management. Book Appointment
- Dr. Dmytro Palii, MD, PHD : Specializes in infectious diseases with a focus on infective hepatitis diagnosis and management. Book Appointment
- Dr. Nopporn Apiwattanakul, MD : Experienced infectious disease specialist with a compassionate approach to managing infective hepatitis. Book Appointment
Importance and Benefits of Consulting a Infectious disease specialist Online
Early consultation with an infectious disease specialist is essential, as India faces a high prevalence of infective hepatitis, particularly hepatitis A and E, driven by poor sanitation and contaminated water. Hepatitis B and C are also major concerns, transmitted through unsafe medical practices and blood exposure. These infections can lead to chronic liver conditions like cirrhosis and liver cancer, with rural areas facing greater challenges due to limited healthcare access.
How Our Platform Connects You with Infectious Disease Specialists
Our platform connects you with experienced >Infectious Disease Specialists to diagnose and manage conditions like infective hepatitis and other viral infections. You can easily schedule appointments, receive electronic prescriptions, and access expert, personalized care. We are dedicated to offering a seamless and convenient healthcare experience, ensuring your liver health is in trusted hands.
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FAQ
Infective hepatitis is mainly transmitted through different routes depending on the type of virus. Hepatitis A and E are usually spread through the consumption of contaminated food and water, especially in areas with poor sanitation. Hepatitis B, C, and D are transmitted through contact with infected blood, such as unprotected sex, sharing needles, or unsafe medical practices like transfusions or injections. Hepatitis B can also be passed from mother to child during childbirth. Practicing good hygiene, ensuring safe medical practices, and getting vaccinated can help reduce the risk of transmission.
Complications from infective hepatitis can range from mild to severe, depending on the type and duration of the infection. Chronic hepatitis B and C can lead to serious liver damage, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver failure, and an increased risk of liver cancer. Acute hepatitis can cause severe liver inflammation, leading to jaundice, bleeding, and in some cases, acute liver failure. If left untreated, chronic infections may result in irreversible liver damage, requiring a liver transplant. Early detection and treatment are crucial to preventing these complications.
Preventing infective hepatitis involves several key measures depending on the virus type. Vaccination is available for hepatitis A and B and is effective in preventing infection. Practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing, can reduce the risk of hepatitis A and E, especially when handling food and water. Avoiding contaminated food and water, particularly in areas with poor sanitation, is essential for preventing hepatitis A and E. For hepatitis B and C, using safe medical practices, such as ensuring sterile blood transfusions and needles, and avoiding sharing needles or engaging in unprotected sex, can significantly reduce the transmission risk. Additionally, people at high risk for hepatitis B can receive the vaccine as a preventive measure.
Infective hepatitis is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests and clinical evaluation. Blood tests can detect specific antibodies or antigens related to the hepatitis viruses, confirming the presence of the infection. Liver function tests are also conducted to assess liver damage by measuring levels of enzymes and bilirubin in the blood. In some cases, a liver biopsy, ultrasound, or imaging tests may be used to evaluate the extent of liver damage, especially in chronic infections. Early diagnosis helps in timely treatment and management of the condition.