Hepatitis

• Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver
• Most commonly caused by viruses (A, B, and C)
• Some types are acute, while others can become chronic
• Chronic hepatitis can lead to liver damage or cirrhosis
• Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B

Types of Hepatitis

Hepatitis A

• Spread through contaminated food or water
• Usually short-term (acute)
• Does not become chronic
• Preventable with vaccination

Hepatitis B

• Spread through blood and bodily fluids
• Can be acute or chronic
• May lead to long-term liver damage
• Preventable with vaccination

Hepatitis C

• Spread primarily through blood contact
• Often becomes chronic if untreated
• Leading cause of chronic liver disease
• Treatable with antiviral medications

Less Common Types

• Hepatitis D: Occurs only in people with hepatitis B
• Hepatitis E: Spread through contaminated water, usually acute

You may be at higher risk if you:

• Travel to areas with poor sanitation (hepatitis A or E)
• Have unprotected sex or exposure to blood (hepatitis B or C)
• Use injectable drugs, or sharing used syringes
• Work in healthcare or high-exposure settings
• Have underlying liver conditions

Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis.

• Hepatitis A: Usually resolves on its own with supportive care
• Hepatitis B: May require monitoring or antiviral medications
• Hepatitis C: Often treated with antiviral medications that can cure the infection

Managing lifestyle factors, such as avoiding alcohol and maintaining liver health, is an important part of care.

See a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms such as jaundice, persistent fatigue, abdominal pain, or if you believe you may have been exposed to hepatitis.

Early testing and diagnosis are important, especially for hepatitis B and C.