What You Should Know About Hepatitis

Hepatitis is simply the inflammation of the liver arising from many causes. This inturn cause damage to the liver parenchyma leading to the derangement of liver function.
The Liver is one of the most important organs of the body and it performs many functions necessary for survival.

Types of Hepatitis/Causes.
There are different types of Hepatitis which are basically due to the different causes of Hepatitis. They include

✓VIRAL HEPATITIS: This is as a result of viral infection of the liver . Common viruses that cause hepatitis include Hepatitis A,B,C,D and E viruses. Hepatitis B and C viruses can, overtime, cause severe damage to the liver such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. They are transmitted through transfusion of an infected blood, unprotected sexual practice with an infected person, infected needle pricks, from an infected mother to child during childbirth. Hepatitis Viruses A and E spread through contaminated food and water.

✓ALCOHOLIC HEPATITIS: This is caused by prolonged heavy consumption of alcohol. This can cause damage to the liver slowly and gradually.

✓DRUG-INDUCED HEPATITIS: Some drugs are toxic to the liver. Such drugs include TB drugs, Painkillers, anti-epileptic drugs. These drugs can cause serious damage to the liver.

Prevention:
The various possible ways Hepatitis can be prevented include the following

• Practicing basic good hygiene, avoiding roadside food and drinking clean and purified water.

•Vaccination: Vaccines are available for protection against Hepatitis A and B viruses.

•Although no vaccine is available yet for Hepatitis C, it can be prevented by using disposable needles and syringes.

•Blood for transfusions should be properly screened before use.

~ Dr Peculiar Nnajiofor EHEI Blogger