Hepatitis Education

What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a general term that refers to inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Viral infections (e.g. Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E)

• Excessive alcohol use

• Certain medications or toxins

• Autoimmune disorders

The most common types of viral hepatitis are:

• Hepatitis A: Caused by the Hepatitis A virus, usually spread through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, nausea, and jaundice.

• Hepatitis B: Caused by the Hepatitis B virus, spread through contact with infected bodily fluids. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including liver damage.

• Hepatitis C: Caused by the Hepatitis C virus, spread through contact with infected blood. Many people with Hepatitis C don't have symptoms until the liver is severely damaged.

Hepatitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Proper diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent serious complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer. If you have concerns about hepatitis, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.