New Delhi: Hepatitis is a condition that takes a toll on the liver by causing inflammation, swelling and damage. Hepatitis cases are rising at an alarming rate in the country but there is still a low amount of awareness regarding it. There are also myths floating regarding this condition that prevent people from seeking timely intervention. Are you aware?
Dr Pratik Tibdewal, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road shares five main types of hepatitis which require timely intervention.
Types of hepatitis
Hepatitis A: Happens due to eating contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B: It spreads through blood and bodily fluids causing liver damage.
Hepatitis C: It too spreads via blood and bodily fluids ultimately impacting the liver and damaging it.
Hepatitis D: This is commonly seen in people who are previously diagnosed with hepatitis B.
Hepatitis E: This type of hepatitis often happens because of contaminated water. Awareness and education regarding hepatitis type is important to manage it on time.
The treatment:
Hepatitis A: When it comes to dealing with hepatitis A, one will have to take extreme care of himself/herself, rest enough, and stay hydrated by drinking fluids. One has to eat a nutritious diet and avoid exertion. Vaccination plays a vital role in keeping hepatitis A at bay. Moreover, one will have to also maintain proper hygiene to prevent this infection.
Hepatitis B: Antiviral medications and injections will be prescribed for patients with hepatitis B. However, in case of liver damage, one will require a liver transplant to improve the quality of life. Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for children and adults.
Hepatitis C: Similarly, hepatitis C is also managed by prescribing antiviral medications to the patients. However, one will also need a liver transplant if he/she is infected with hepatitis C and has liver damage. Unfortunately, there is no vaccination available for hepatitis C.
Hepatitis D: There is no specific treatment for hepatitis D. One will have to take medicines or may need a liver transplant in case of liver cirrhosis. Likewise, there is no vaccination available for hepatitis D.
Hepatitis E: Hepatitis E tends to resolve on its own and there is no medication for it. It is possible to recover from it without any complications. One can manage symptoms of hepatitis E that are fever, nausea and vomiting, jaundice, fatigue, and loss of appetite with the help of the doctor. Even there is no vaccination for hepatitis E management. Considering hepatitis can occur in any age group including children, adults, and pregnant women, it is essential to impart knowledge about this fatal condition and avoid any kind of neglect in seeking treatment.
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