Learn Everything You Need to Know About Hepatitis

Hepatitis prevention tips

There are vaccines available that can help protect against a variety of hepatitis viruses. Taking precautions to reduce your exposure to substances containing these viruses is another crucial preventive approach.

 

Vaccines A hepatitis A vaccination is available and can aid in the prevention of HAV infection. The hepatitis A vaccine is administered in two doses, and most children begin vaccination between the ages of 12 and 23 months. Reliable Source. Adults can also get this, which includes the hepatitis B vaccine.

Hepatitis B immunizations are recommended for all babies, according to the CDC Trusted Source. During the first six months of a child’s life, doctors routinely deliver a course of three immunizations.

The vaccine is also recommended by the CDC for all healthcare and medical staff. Hepatitis B vaccination can help protect against hepatitis D.

Hepatitis C and E vaccinations are not currently available.

 

lowering exposure

Hepatitis viruses can spread from person to person by contact with infectious bodily fluids, water, and foods. Keeping your exposure to these chemicals to a minimum will assist you from developing hepatitis viruses.

One strategy to avoid catching hepatitis A and E is to practice good hygiene. The viruses that cause these disorders can be found in waterTrusted Source. If you are traveling to a country where hepatitis is prevalent, you should avoid:

local iced water

Shellfish and oysters that are uncooked or undercooked

fruits and veggies that are raw

Hepatitis B, C, and D viruses can spread through body fluids carrying these infectious agents.

You have the ability to lessen your risk.

Trusted Source of coming into contact with these viruses’ fluids by:

  • needles should not be shared
  • razors should not be shared
  • not using someone else’s toothbrush, and not coming into contact with blood that has been spilled
  • Hepatitis B and C can be transmitted through sexual contact and intercourse. Using barrier techniques during sexual activity, such as condoms and dental dams, can help reduce the risk of infection.

Hepatitis complications

Chronic hepatitis B or C can cause serious health concerns. People with chronic hepatitis B or C are at risk of: Because the virus affects the liver, they are at risk of:

  • chronic hepatitis
  • liver cancer caused by cirrhosis

Liver failure can develop when your liver stops functioning normally. Liver failure complications include:

  • A buildup of fluid in your abdomen, known as ascites, and an increase in blood pressure in portal veins that enter your liver, known as portal hypertension, are all symptoms of bleeding problems.
  • renal disease
  • Hepatic encephalopathy, which can cause weariness, memory loss, and mental impairment.
  • Hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer, causes death

Alcohol should be avoided by people with chronic hepatitis B and C since it can hasten liver damage and failure. Certain vitamins and drugs may also have an impact on liver function. Check with your doctor before starting any new medications if you have chronic hepatitis B or C.