What is Viral Hepatitis?

Description of the Disease

Viral hepatitis is inflammation of the liver caused by hepatitis viruses. There are several types of hepatitis viruses, such as A, B, C, D, E. Each of them causes different forms of the disease.

Classification

Viral hepatitis is classified according to the type of virus causing the disease.

Symptoms

• Fatigue and weakness
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Dark urine
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and white of the eyes)

Causes

Viral hepatitis is transmitted through infected blood or other fluids, sexual contact, from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth, as well as through contaminated water and food.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of viral hepatitis includes blood tests for the presence of the virus, ultrasound examination of the liver, liver biopsy.

Treatment

Treatment of viral hepatitis depends on the type of virus. In some cases, antiviral medications are required, in others, supportive therapy is needed to alleviate symptoms and maintain liver function.

Prevention

Prevention of viral hepatitis includes vaccination, adherence to measures to prevent virus transmission through blood and sexual contact, and hygiene practices.

Physician

Gastroenterologists or infectious disease specialists treat viral hepatitis.