Hepatitis is a disease
that causes inflammation of the liver. It can be either acute (lasting less than
six months) or chronic (lasting more than six months).
Several viruses are known to cause hepatitis. Common forms of
viral hepatitis include Hepatitis A, B, and C:
Hepatitis A (hep A) is a viral infection of the liver that can make you feel
like you have the flu. You can catch hepatitis A if you come in close contact
with someone who has it. The virus spreads easily among people who live
together. It is common among young children, who can easily spread it to other
people. You may also get hepatitis A if you eat or drink something contaminated
with the virus. Proper hand washing can help reduce your risk. It is very
contagious. Here is all you need to...
- Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is a virus that causes liver disease. It most commonly comes from contaminated food or water. This form of hepatitis never leads to a chronic infection and usually has no complications. The liver usually heals from hepatitis A within two months. However, occasional deaths from hepatitis A have occurred due to massive liver infection. Hepatitis A can be prevented by vaccination.
- Hepatitis B: This form of hepatitis causes liver damage. Most people recover from the virus within six months, but sometimes the virus will cause a lifelong, chronic infection, possibly resulting in serious liver damage. Once infected, a person can spread the virus even if he or she does not feel sick. Hepatitis B can be prevented by vaccination.
- Hepatitis C: One of the most common causes of liver disease in the U.S., Hepatitis C is the No. 1 reason for liver transplant. At least 80% of patients with hepatitis C develop a chronic liver infection. Approximately 2.7 million people in the U.S. are chronically infected with hepatitis C, according to the CDC. It often does not show any symptoms. No vaccine is yet available to prevent hepatitis C.
Viral hepatitis is often preventable.
However, it is still considered a serious health risk because it can:
- Destroy liver tissue.
- Spread from person to person.
- Weaken the body's immune system.
- Cause the liver to fail.
- Cause liver cancer (hepatitis B and C).
- Cause death.
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