What is hepatitis?
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by infection with the hepatitis viruses. The liver is a very important organ for filtering the blood and maintaining the body’s nutrition through making proteins and storing vitamins and iron. If the liver cannot perform its normal function, it can lead to scarring of the liver, cirrhosis and liver cancer, or even liver failure, causing serious illness.
Symptoms of hepatitis
The symptoms of hepatitis can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Dark urine
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Swelling
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
Types of hepatitis
Hepatitis is usually caused by a hepatitis virus infection, but other causes include bacterial infection, alcohol and drug use.
There are many different types of hepatitis viruses. Each is given a letter with the most common being hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. In some cases hepatitis may also be caused by non-hepatitis specific viruses such as the Epstein-Barr virus.
The treatments of hepatitis differ based on the type and cause of hepatitis.
Hepatitis A
Transmission for the hepatitis A virus occurs through direct contact with infected food, drinks or objects contaminated with faeces, therefore the best preventative measure for the hepatitis A virus is good hygiene.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is passed on via blood and body fluids. Transmission through blood is prevented by avoiding shared injecting equipment and also avoiding tattoo parlours, hair salons and nail salons where instruments are contaminated. Transmission through bodily fluids is prevented through practising safe sex.
Hepatitis C
Caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), this infection spreads primarily through blood contact, often becoming chronic. It can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and is a leading cause of liver transplants. Modern antiviral treatments can cure most cases if diagnosed early.
Hepatitis D
Hepatitis D occurs only in individuals with Hepatitis B, as it relies on the hepatitis B virus to replicate. It often worsens liver disease, accelerating progression to cirrhosis or liver failure. Vaccination against Hepatitis B prevents this infection.
Hepatitis E
Caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV), it spreads through contaminated water or food and is usually acute and self-limiting. However, it can cause severe complications in pregnant women. Prevention focuses on improved sanitation and safe drinking water.
Travel Considerations for Hepatitis Prevention
Travelling provides the opportunity to soak in the beauty and diversity of the world, but it is essential to ensure your health and safety are secure at all times.. Hepatitis viruses, including hepatitis a virus, hepatitis b virus, and others, are very common around the world, and the risk of exposure can vary depending on the region.
It is important to take the necessary precautions, such as considering vaccines to prevent hepatitis, particularly hepatitis a and b, before and during travelling. The doctors at Southgate Medical specialise in travel medicine and would be happy to provide further advice regarding vaccinations.
Hepatitis vaccinations
There are individual vaccines available for prevention of the Hepatitis A & Hepatitis B infection, as well as combined Hepatitis A&B vaccinations. These safe and effective vaccines are manufactured and transported globally with the proper medical packaging and compliance with specific temperature and care regulations. Regardless of where you are located, a medical specialist can guide you on treatment for hepatitis and provide the necessary care to help prevent hepatitis.
In Australia, hepatitis b vaccination is included in the childhood immunisation schedule. If you are unsure of your immunity or whether you have been vaccinated, you may find more information on the Australian Immunisation Register or otherwise please discuss with your doctor. Getting tested for hepatitis b and ensuring vaccination are important steps to protect against infection with the hepatitis b virus.
If you’re planning to travel overseas to countries where hepatitis infection is more common, you should get advice from your local GP or a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before you depart. The doctors at Southgate Medical specialise in Travel Medicine and would be happy to provide further advice regarding vaccinations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hepatitis
What type of hepatitis is the worst?
Hepatitis C is often considered the most severe type of hepatitis due to its potential to cause chronic liver damage. While other types, like hepatitis A and E, are usually acute and resolve on their own, hepatitis C frequently progresses to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer. Hepatitis B can also become chronic and lead to serious complications, but effective vaccines and treatments make it more manageable.
What is the difference between hepatitis A, B, and C?
Hepatitis A is a short-term infection transmitted through contaminated food or water. It does not cause chronic liver disease and is preventable with a vaccine. Hepatitis B is spread through bodily fluids like blood or semen, can become chronic, and may lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. A vaccine is available to prevent hepatitis B. Hepatitis C is mainly transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, often through sharing needles. It frequently becomes chronic, is a leading cause of liver transplants, and while there is no vaccine, highly effective treatments are available.
What should I do if I suspect I have hepatitis?
If you suspect you have hepatitis, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider immediately. Symptoms may include fatigue, jaundice, nausea, and abdominal pain. A doctor will likely recommend blood tests to identify the type of hepatitis and its severity. Early diagnosis is key to managing the condition, whether it involves antiviral treatments, lifestyle adjustments, or vaccination to prevent further complications. Seek expert guidance from medical professionals, such as those at Southgate Medical, to ensure proper care and recovery.