Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis means inflammation of the liver caused by a viral infection. The liver is a vital organ that helps digest food, store energy, and remove harmful substances. When a hepatitis virus infects it, the liver can become swollen and work less effectively. The main viruses are labelled A, B, C, D and E, each with its own pattern of spread.

Viral hepatitis affects people worldwide and is a major global health concern. How common each type is varies by region and by how the virus spreads. Anyone can be affected, though risk depends on factors such as travel, living conditions, exposure to infected blood or fluids, and whether someone has been vaccinated against certain types.

Symptoms can include tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark urine, and yellowing of the skin or eyes, known as jaundice. However, many people, especially with chronic infections, have no symptoms for a long time. This is why some types of hepatitis can go unnoticed until liver problems develop or the infection is found on testing.

Each type is caused by a specific virus. Hepatitis A and E usually spread through contaminated food or water, while B, C and D mainly spread through infected blood or body fluids. Risk factors include travel to areas with poor sanitation, exposure to unscreened blood, sharing needles, and being born to an infected mother for certain types.

Viral hepatitis is mainly diagnosed with blood tests that detect the virus or the body's response to it and identify which type is present. Additional blood tests can show how well the liver is working. If chronic infection is found, scans or other tests may be used to assess the liver and guide care. Testing is important because symptoms are often absent.

Treatment depends on the type. Short-lived infections such as hepatitis A often need only rest, fluids, and supportive care while the body recovers. Chronic infections, particularly hepatitis B and C, are managed with specialist medical care, including antiviral treatment in many cases, and regular monitoring of the liver. Your care team tailors the approach to the specific virus and your health.

Several types can be prevented. Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B and offer strong protection. Good hygiene, safe food and water, not sharing needles or personal items that may carry blood, and safe medical and sexual practices all reduce risk. Preventing hepatitis B also helps prevent hepatitis D, which only occurs alongside it.